Crafted for the true connoisseur, Archimedes is produced in very limited quantities from the vintage’s most impressive lots of Cabernet Sauvignon. 2019 was the first time that California has been 100% drought-free since 2011. Winter and spring rains provided sufficient water in the soil through midsummer, with irrigation not starting until July. The vintage provided us with a mild growing season, with exceptional quality fruit. The 2019 Archimedes was aged for a year and a half in French oak barrels, resulting in a beautifully integrated wine.

Archimedes is sourced from high elevation vineyards in Alexander Valley. High elevation means prolonged sun exposure and less dramatic temperature shifts. Vines can synthesize flavor and phenolic compounds at a higher and more consistent rate. Light onshore winds also work to moderate the temperature. Together, these conditions allow for a slow, steady ripening of the grapes, even when bud break is delayed after a dusting of snow during the winter.

The fruit selected for the 2019 Archimedes comes from four separate vineyards in Alexander Valley. Archimedes Vineyard, in the Pine Mountain Cloverdale Peak sub-AVA, is one of the highest elevation vineyards in Sonoma County. Residing high above the fog line at 2,100 feet, it features soil made of medium-sized rocks mixed with a fine loam. The Barbara Long Vineyard (elevation: 250-300 ft.) in Dry Creek Valley is meticulously managed in order to derive the highest level of expression from the fruit, and its well-drained soils help stress the vines to create more concentrated flavors. Gird Creek Vineyard is 250 feet above sea level, in a cooler pocket of Alexander Valley and features deep, well-drained alluvium soil with mixed rocks. Finally,
Stuhlmuller Vineyard (elevation: 150-300ft.) is planted in the heart of central Alexander Valley. Its topography reflects rolling hills with varying aspects, gaining a wider array of varietal characteristics. Stuhlmuller’s well-drained, rocky clay loam also creates a limiting environment for the vines. Afternoon fog in the vineyards leads to greater hang time, complex fruit development, and more concentrated flavors.

2019 was the first time that California has been 100% drought-free since 2011. Winter and spring rains provided sufficient water in the soil through midsummer, with irrigation not starting until July. The vintage provided us with a mild growing season, with exceptional quality fruit.