Fantesca Estate & Winery
2023 Cabernet Sauvignon
"Prelude"
Calistoga AVA
Auction 29 | Lot No. 21
Vintage: 2023
Fantesca Estate & Winery
Cabernet Sauvignon
Calistoga
20 cases produced
Highlights
- Sourced from a select block on the hillside of the prestigious Heritage School Vineyard, planted in 1998 with Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon on red volcanic soils, this wine reflects the vineyard’s remarkable terroir
- 100% Cabernet Sauvignon; tiny, dark blue berries ripen slowly due to cool afternoon temperatures, yielding a wine of exceptional structure and complexity
- Aging for 20 months in 50% new French oak and 50% neutral, achieving a perfect balance of structure and finesse
- Produced in limited quantity, this one-time offering, was crafted exclusively for Premiere Napa Valley
Description
When two unique philosophies unite as stewards of soil, sustainability and family heritage, something extraordinary emerges. Acclaimed winemaker Tony Arcudi and fearless second-generation winemaker Chelsea Hoff have crafted The Prelude—a soulful, single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon that exudes both power and grace.
On the nose, The Prelude reveals layers of ripe blackberries, cassis and dark cherries, accented by violets and hints of mocha. The palate is rich and velvety, offering a harmonious balance of power and elegance. Silky tannins frame flavors of juicy plum, black currant and cocoa powder, while a vibrant acidity provides structure and energy. The finish is seamless and enduring, with notes of espresso and a delicate whisper of spice.
With expressive fruit, timeless passion and a deep sense of place, The Prelude is a tribute to Napa Valley’s enduring winemaking legacy.
This exclusive lot offers a rare opportunity to claim a true masterpiece.
Wine Facts
- Single vineyard wine
- Sustainably produced
- Organically produced (also commonly called "organically grown")
- Wine is 100% estate grown and bottled
Tony Arcudi
Winemaker, Fantesca Estate & Winery
From the depths of the ocean in a Navy submarine to the lush vineyards of Napa Valley, Tony Arcudi’s life story is a complex blend of adventure, determination, and refined taste. Tony’s journey began far from the winemaking world, first navigating missile systems and later maneuvering through the tech sector. But it was a glass of Châteauneuf-du-Pape that stirred a passion deep within, leading him to trade circuit boards for grapevines.
Boston bred, Tony’s love for cooking and the culinary arts was cultivated by his parents’ kitchen and a backyard garden. Though a pragmatic career in the Navy came first, the world of wine was calling, and at age 38, Tony answered that call with a courageous leap of faith.
His path to winemaking was anything but smooth; initially rejected by UC Davis due to his unconventional background, Tony persisted, eventually earning not only acceptance but a Regents Scholarship. His education continued with hands-on experience at Stagecoach Vineyards and a fellowship at the prestigious Maison M. Chapoutier in France.
Returning stateside, Tony honed his skills as an Assistant Winemaker at Nickel & Nickel before an unexpected encounter with Heidi Barrett at a conference landed him a role at Fantesca in 2009. Here, he worked closely with Heidi on Fantesca’s wines and became the sole Winemaker for King Richard’s Reserve Pinot Noir.
Tony’s unorthodox journey became his greatest asset, his experiences both inside and outside the world of wine melding into an approach that effortlessly blends art, science, and agriculture. Whether working with Fantesca, scoring 100-point triumphs at Kapcsandy Family Winery, or crafting his own wine brand, Tony pours his soul into every bottle.
Reflecting on his incredible journey, Tony says, "Honestly now, before winemaking, everything else seems like one big detour." His path may have been winding, but it led to the perfect destination. Tony Arcudi is not just a winemaker; he’s a maestro of the vine, turning grapes into symphonies, one glass at a time.
Country born: United States
Years in the wine industry: 20-30 years
Chelsea Hoff
Winemaker, Fantesca Estate & Winery
Chelsea Hoff leads as the Director of Vineyard Operations at Fantesca Estate & Winery. Her passion for winemaking was kindled as a young girl when her parents, Susan & Duane Hoff, established Fantesca in 2004. She was drawn to the meticulous process of curating wines that celebrate life’s treasured milestones.
Driven by an insatiable curiosity, Chelsea pursued her academic journey at UC Davis, plunging deep into the realms of enology and viticulture. Her quest for global expertise led her to wine-rich regions from the rustic terrains of Italy and Bordeaux to the diverse landscapes of Australia. This international foray presented her a tapestry of winemaking techniques that guides her distinct style today.
In 2016, her entrepreneurial spirit shone through with the launch of Fearless Wines, a testament to her commitment to both authenticity and challenging the wine industry’s conventions. Fearless Wines, embodying its name, swiftly captured attention, with its inaugural vintage selling out immediately.
Yet, Chelsea’s vision transcended traditional winemaking. With the development of Lohas Wines in 2019, she championed sustainable practices, honing in on lesser-known varietals from southeast Spain. This groundbreaking approach not only bolstered local growers but also championed eco-conscious practices, setting a new standard from vineyard to table.
Now, as the Director of Vineyard Operations for Fantesca Estate & Winery, Chelsea is responsible for both Fantesca’s outside growers and estate vineyards, with a focus on the growing of the highest-quality wine grapes, budgeting, scheduling vineyard activities, planning vineyard replants, and developing long-term farming strategies for sustainability.
Country born: United States
Years in the wine industry: 9 years
Winery Distribution
Fantesca Estate & Winery is distributed in the following markets. Please contact the winery directly for the most up-to-date distribution information and to explore commercial opportunities.
Domestic:
- Florida (Ace Wine & Spirits)
- Minnesota (Small Lot Wines & Spirits)
- New Jersey (Independence Wine and Spirits)
- New York (Independence Wine and Spirits)
- Texas (Monopole Wines)