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Our sources whispered early details of this project years ago, and for obvious reasons, we were profoundly intrigued. Anyone familiar with the legendary Napa Valley vineyard, Bella Oaks, is conscious of its pedigree and contribution to recognition and excellent wine history. If the name does not ring a bell, let us introduce you to one of the most revered vineyards in Napa Valley's history. In the early 1960s, Barney & Belle Rhodes moved to Napa Valley and purchased a parcel of land in Oakville. After tearing out the overgrown prune orchard, they planted 12 acres of vines. Before the vineyard fruited, the Rhodes sold the property to Martha and Tom May and headed back to San Francisco. Those vines would go on to be renamed Martha's Vineyard and make the acclaimed Heitz Cellars Martha's Vineyard Cabernet. A short time passed, and the Rhodes returned to Rutherford, where they planted a second vineyard of Cabernet – Bella Oaks. Barney & Belle invested in Heitz Cellars and sold the Bella Oaks Cabernet to Joe Heitz for many years. Their legacy was not only for growing outstanding Cabernet grapes but genuine hospitality and devotion to sharing the world of wine (and their 10,000-bottle cellar) with so many others. When the Bella Oaks vineyard was acquired in 2010 by Suzanne Deal Booth, a supporter of cultural heritage projects and the arts, the community breathed a sigh of relief. We now knew the esteemed property would be honored for all it has been and can be in this new chapter. So, we patiently waited as Deal Booth assembled the right team to pay tribute to this prized parcel. The new steward's vision was to coax the epitome of expression from these vines and to do so; she needed the best in the business. She brought in Nigel Kinsman, winemaker, Michel Rolland, international master blender, and David Abreu, vineyard manager - an indisputable golden trilogy in Napa Valley winegrowing. With the combined experience of this trio, Bella Oaks developed an understanding of the soil and vines over the last decade that profoundly informs the winemaking. As a result, we can look forward to a long-lasting legacy at this grand estate that focuses on organic and biodynamic practices. Additionally, in the study and reimagination of this storied plot, David Abreu determined a portion of the vineyards required re-planting. The newly planted Cabernet Sauvignon vines will one day contribute to the flagship estate proprietary blend but, in their adolescence, provide the backbone for the Le Génie. Nigel supplemented the youthful Cabernet Sauvignon with Cabernet Franc (10%) from Abreu's Cappella vineyard and Petit Verdot (10%) from Ecotone vineyard. After 22 months in 76% new French oak, the wine presents a surprising freshness of red raspberries, currants, and Morello cherries. Velvety tannins envelop the palate, which boasts a deep core of dark fruits highlighted by dried herbs, licorice, and toasted spice. The balanced yet juicy acidity flows through the finish, lending brightness that makes the Le Génie undeniably drinkable. Enjoying this inaugural blend offers a glimpse into the future and what will come from the rejuvenated Bella Oaks estate. - Acme Fine Wines |
