Region: Napa Valley, California

Vintage: 2017

Composition: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc

History: Established in 2002 by Cliff Lede, Lede Family Wines presents a diverse portfolio of small-production wines with an unmistakable sense of place. Cliff Lede Vineyards, on 60 acres in Napa Valley’s Stags Leap district, is known for its elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. The flagship Cabernet Sauvignon, Poetry, is made on the steep hillside part of the estate.

Tasting Notes: The 2017 Songbook is a wonderful example of how the synthesis of great terroir and exquisite farming can create legendary wines in difficult vintages. The Madrona Ranch components lend gravel notes and pure cassis, wild blackberry, bay laurel, and liquorice root aromas and flavors. The Thorevilos Vineyard lots add damson plum, warm mission fig, juniper, and talc. Precise and well defined, this young wine exudes a confidence and purity on the palate. The lasting finish struts with an array of citrus botanicals, beef blood, and the spices anise, cinnamon, and coriander. – Christopher Tynan, Winemaker