2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Backus Vineyard

South of Oakville Crossroad on the east side of Silverado Trail.
 

20 acres Cabernet Sauvignon, 1 acre Petit Verdot, 1 acre Malbec.

Boomer gravelly loam composed of old rhyolitic bedrock.

Afternoon sun radiates hills.

Red-colored soil and long hours of sunlight retain heat; steeply terraced, 25% slope; well-drained, rocky soil imparts rich tannins and flavors of chocolate, berry and mineral.

Phelps held a long-term lease on the property from 1977 to 1996, after which he purchased the entire parcel.

Backus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon.