Leaf + Twig: a simple equation with deeper meaning. It represents two essential elements of the grape vines that produce this rich and complex 100% cabernet sauvignon wine. And it honors the two Golden Retrievers who were loyal companions to my family for over a decade.

 

Twelve years ago, I replanted and redesigned this 3½-acre Saint Helena vineyard with the goal of unlocking its potential to create an elegant and extraordinary wine. Since its first vintage in 2004, the production of Leaf + Twig has deliberately been limited to no more than 25 cases, representing less than 5% of the total grape yield from the vineyard. From 2004 to 2012 the Leaf + Twig fruit has been sold to Vineyard 29, where the grapes that culminate in the Leaf + Twig wine are fermented separately. Before release, each bottle of Leaf + Twig is barrel aged for 18 months and subsequently bottled aged for twelve months at a constant temperature of 55 degrees.

 

At its core, this wine is robust but not overpowering; it is approachable in its infancy and has now shown that it ages very well. Leaf + Twig continues to evolve with every vintage and shows up-front promise for collectors and avid drinkers alike. While every year is different, Leaf + Twig is distinctive in featuring layers of rich, dark cherries and blackberries, traces of cocoa, eucalyptus, and mild spice attributes. These complex aromas marry beautifully with the velvety mouth-feel and the well-integrated, firm tannins of this cult wine. I hope you will enjoy Leaf + Twig in your glass as much as the dedicated team that contributes to its success continues to enjoy the journey of bringing it to your table.

Leaf & Twig Vineyards, LLC, St. Helena, CA