Swanson Vineyards
2011 Cabernet Sauvignon
"Winemaker's Selection"
Napa Valley AVA
Auction 17 | Lot No. 98
Vintage: 2011
Swanson Vineyards
Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley
5 cases produced
Description
Winemaker Chris Phelps was given free rein in creating this Premiere wine, and he chose to collaborate with consultant Guillaume Thienpont from Vieux Château Certan in Pomerol. Guillaume’s experience, (Châteaux Margaux, Domaine Jean Grivot, Ornellaia) brought a fresh perspective to Chris’ own background (Dominus, Caymus, Chateau Pétrus) to create this single-barrel blend.
The wine is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, a blend from ultra-premium Howell Mountain, Oakville and Yountville vineyard blocks, and 5% Merlot. The Cabernet components are the crème de la crème of Swanson’s 2011 vintage, and exhibit tannin ripeness and luscious black fruits. The Merlot, from a block adjacent to the Oakville To Kalon vineyards, softens the grip of the Cabernet, and adds flesh to the mid-palate.
Wine Facts
- pH: 3.72000
- Wine is unfiltered
- Sustainably produced
Tasting Chart
| bone dry |
|
very sweet |
| light body |
|
very full bodied |
| soft, gentle |
|
very crisp |
| no tannins |
|
heavy tannins |
 |
Chris Phelps
Winemaker, Swanson Vineyards
Founding winemaker, Dominus Estate, 1984-1996; Caymus Vineyards, 1996-2003; and Swanson Vineyards, 2003-present
Country born: United States
Education: Louis M. Martini, 6-month internship, 1980
BS Enology/Fermentation Science, UC Davis, 1981
Advanced enology studies, University of Bordeaux, 1981-1982
Chateau des Laurets, Puisseguin-St. Emilion, internship 1982
Mentors: Michael Martini, Jean-Claude Berrouet, Christian Moueix, Chuck Wagner
Years in the wine industry: 30+ years
Winemaking Philosophy:
My approach is minimalist, with the appropriate use of technology, a reliance upon intution, a respect of terroir, and a team approach with excellent communication between cellar and vineyard
St. Francis Yacht Club
700 Marina Boulevard
San Francisco CA 94123
415-563-6363
Other Premiere Napa Valley Wines available from St. Francis Yacht Club:
| Winery | Vintage | Variety | Appellation | Fanciful | Auction |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Napa Angel | 2011 | Cabernet Sauvignon | Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley | 18 (2014) | |
| Paraduxx | 2011 | Red Wine | Napa Valley | Premiere Blend | 17 (2013) |
| Swanson Vineyards | 2011 | Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley | Winemaker's Selection | 17 (2013) |
Winery Distribution
Swanson Vineyards is distributed in the following markets. Please contact the winery directly for the most up-to-date distribution information and to explore commercial opportunities.
International:
- Caribbean (Global Wine Advisors)
- China (EVO Wine Group)
- Denmark (American Wine)
- Japan (Belluna Co., Ltd.)