Veeder House Cabernet Sauvignon 2015

The 2015 vintage at Veeder House was shaped by a combination of early season challenges and exceptional late-season conditions, resulting in a small yet highly concentrated harvest. A warm winter led to an early budbreak, but cool and unsettled weather during spring flowering reduced yields significantly. This naturally low crop, combined with a warm and steady summer, allowed the vines on Mount Veeder to focus their energy on fewer clusters, producing grapes of remarkable intensity and depth. The elevated vineyard sites, with their rocky, well drained soils, further enhanced concentration while preserving the balance and structure characteristic of mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon.

At Veeder House, precision and selectivity were paramount in 2015. The reduced yields required careful management, and only the finest fruit was retained through rigorous sorting. The grapes were hand harvested at optimal ripeness and fermented in small lots to preserve the integrity of each parcel. Gentle extraction techniques were employed to maintain balance, while extended maceration contributed to the wine’s structure and texture. The wine was aged in French oak barrels for approximately 20 to 24 months, allowing it to develop complexity and integrate its powerful components while maintaining clarity of fruit.

In the glass, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon reveals a deep, opaque garnet color with a vibrant core. The nose is intense and layered, offering aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and ripe plum, intertwined with notes of graphite, cedar, and crushed stone. Subtle hints of dark chocolate, espresso, and baking spice add further dimension, reflecting both the richness of the vintage and the influence of oak aging.

On the palate, the wine is full bodied and richly structured, with a dense core of concentrated dark fruit supported by firm, finely grained tannins. Flavors of cassis, black cherry, and cocoa unfold with depth and precision, complemented by nuances of tobacco, vanilla, and mineral undertones. Despite its power, the wine maintains balance through well integrated acidity, providing freshness and lift. The finish is long and persistent, marked by intensity, depth, and a lingering savory complexity.

The 2015 Veeder House Cabernet Sauvignon stands as a testament to the resilience of the vintage and the strength of mountain terroir. While approachable with decanting, its concentration and structure suggest a long evolution, with optimal drinking over the next 15 to 20 years.

Harvest Late September to early October 2015
Grape Variety 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon
Aging Approximately 20 to 24 months in French oak barrels
Alcohol Approximately 14.5 percent ABV