2012 Altvs Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Winemaker Notes
From the same fruit sources as the Merus bottling, the Altus comes from
selecting barrels that showcase fruit and pure varietal character and a
tannin profile that is more feminine than masculine within the context
of the vintage. As the 2012 vintage was massive in structure, so is the
2012 Altus. While this bold wine opens up it is filled with layer upon
layer of chocolate, black currant (cassis), cedar, and licorice root. It is
super-soft, intensely flavored, and mouthwatering.
— David Lattin, Winemaker
Other Notes
80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot,
8% Malbec, 1% Merlot
Wine Specs
Vintage
2012
Varietal
Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation
Napa Valley
Acid
5.7 g/L
pH
3.8
Aging
25 month in French Oak, 60% new; Bottled Unfiltered
Alcohol %
14.7
Wine Enthusiast
91
Production Notes
Like Merus, Altus is produced from the same vineyard sources using a
combination of small tank and bin fermentations. Very hot fermentations
were employed for maximum extraction. All lots were basket pressed and
barrels were filled sequentially from tank and press to maximize variability.
Lots and barrels were selected for Altus at first and subsequent racking’s with
an eye toward wines of great perfume and elegance.
Vineyard Notes
Founded in 2005, Altvs produces small quantities of handmade Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon. We source fruit from a handful of serious growers
with hillside and benchland vineyards up and down Napa Valley. Our style
emphasizes balance, fruit purity and intensity.