Conn Valley Vineyards
In 1983, Anderson's Conn Valley Vineyards was founded by the Anderson and Gallagher Families. Gus and Phyllis Anderson’s son Todd and his wife Ronene currently operate the winery.
| Region: | Napa Valley |
|---|---|
| Sub Region: | St Helena |
| Wine: | View all wines |
In the early 1980s, the Andersons and Gallaghers began looking for suitable Napa Valley land to grow vineyards. Gus Anderson had previously studied viticulture and enology at UC Davis, and he realized Napa’s potential before the region’s popularity exploded in the ensuing years. They decided to buy a little over 40 acres in the eastern part of the St Helena AVA near the base of Howell Mountain.
The estate is planted with 26 acres of vines. There is also a 15 acres reservoir on the property which provides irrigation. Joseph Heitz and Joseph Phelps are among Conn Valley’s distinguished neighbors.
Conn Valley grows their vines at about 400 feet above sea level in a warm climate. The soil is made of Bale Loam and drains very well. It is an ideal location for producing full bodied red varietals including Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel.
Winemaker Mac Sawyer studied and trained in France for many years before joining Conn Valley. His Old World education has been critical in developing the winery’s restrained style. He is known for producing impressive wines even in off years. Sawyer’s flagship is a Bordeaux blend called Eloge. He also makes Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and “Right Bank.”
Right Bank is a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc; the two primary grapes grown on the Right Bank of the Gironde River in Bordeaux. The Pomerol and St. Emilion appellations are located in this region and Chateau Cheval Blanc is the most famous producer. This wine is over 50% Cabernet Franc.
Anderson’s Conn Valley Vineyards 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is an impressively balanced wine. Unlike many Napa Cabs, it is not dominated by brash, upfront fruit. This is not to say that it does not have delicious fruit components, but they are balanced by smooth tannins, oak, and spice.
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