Hourglass HGIII Proprietary Blend 2022

Hourglass is two vineyards, a winery and a compilation of estate wines: a vision unfolding. The vineyards are located in Napa Valley; the first, named the Hourglass Vineyard, in St. Helena planted to Cabernet Sauvignon; the other is the Blueline Vineyard in Calistoga, planted to the 5 Bordeaux varietals and Sauvignon Blanc. Jeff Smith founded Hourglass in the 1990's, after replanting the Hourglass Vineyard to Cabernet Sauvignon when the original Zinfandel vines fell to phylloxera. He also took on Bob Foley as winemaker. Their partnership has resulted in some of California's most expressive and sought-after wines.

The HGIII is an expansive, rich and deeply textured wine. All ingredients of the blend, particularly the three core varietals Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah, add distinct qualities to the final wine: Merlot leads with finesse and approachability, Cabernet Sauvignon elevates with structure and polish, and Petite Sirah grounds the blend with gravitas and bass. Aromas of red and black currant mingle with savory notes of dried herb and fennel. The palate features a ripe juicy frame of dark sour and red cherry flavors that mingle with inky black cassis laced with fine streaks of dark Belgian chocolate. Approachable now, though the wine has the structure, density, and complexity to age well.