Veeder House Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

The 2017 vintage at Veeder House was shaped by a dynamic and eventful growing season that ultimately produced wines of depth, structure, and resilience. Following a wet winter that replenished the soils, the vines experienced a warm and steady spring that encouraged healthy canopy growth. The summer progressed with consistent warmth, allowing the grapes on Mount Veeder to ripen evenly. However, the vintage is most remembered for the heat events around Labor Day and the onset of wildfires later in the season. Thanks to the elevated vineyard sites and careful timing of the harvest, Veeder House was able to pick much of its fruit at optimal ripeness before any adverse impact, preserving both quality and integrity.

The mountain terroir once again proved its strength, with rocky soils and excellent drainage naturally limiting yields and concentrating flavors. The grapes were hand harvested and sorted meticulously, ensuring only pristine fruit was selected. Fermentation was carried out in small lots, allowing for precise control and expression of individual vineyard parcels. Gentle extraction techniques were employed to balance the wine’s natural power, followed by extended maceration to enhance structure and texture. The wine was aged in French oak barrels for approximately 20 to 24 months, contributing complexity and integration while maintaining clarity of fruit.

In the glass, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon shows a deep, opaque garnet color with a vibrant core. The nose is rich and expressive, revealing aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry, layered with notes of graphite, cedar, and a touch of dried herbs. Subtle hints of cocoa, espresso, and spice add further dimension, reflecting both the intensity of the vintage and the influence of oak aging.

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

The 2017 Veeder House Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful and expressive vintage, showcasing the resilience of Mount Veeder vineyards under challenging conditions. It is approachable with decanting, yet its structure and concentration suggest a rewarding evolution over the next 12 to 18 years.

Harvest Early to mid September 2017
Grape Variety 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon
Aging Approximately 20 to 24 months in French oak barrels
Alcohol Approximately 14.5 percent ABV