2013 Checkerboard Vineyards 'Aurora' Red Wine

Winemaker's Notes: "Aurora Vineyard is nestled in a small valley midway up Diamond Mountain on a large knoll located at an elevation of 1,200 feet. The knoll projects off the mountainside, giving the vineyard full Southern exposure and open light from the East and West and protection from Napa Valley's summer fog. Six acres of the vineyard are planted in the knoll's rich, volcanic soils that are riddled with basalt cobble in a loamy red clay. The remaining six acres are planted in a deep gravely mix of white volcanic ash and chips of decomposed Rhyolite that were washed down from the steep, rocky crags of Diamond Mountain above. 

The aromas of 2013 Checkerboard Aurora Vineyard offer nuances of spice, smoke, and roasted game meat. On the palate, seductive, dark fruit is seamlessly interlaced with sage and tobacco leaf. Deceptively soft tannins result in an elegant mid-palate and provide the foundation for an unending finish of fruit and pure mineral that is indicative of the site. In its youth, this 2013 vintage of great structure and length benefits from decanting prior to service.”