Perched high above the eastern edge of Napa Valley, Howell Mountain stands as a fortress of flavor, its rugged terrain giving birth to some of the most powerful and distinctive Cabernet Sauvignons in the world. This revered appellation, with its lofty elevation and volcanic heritage, crafts wines that are a testament to the raw beauty and uncompromising nature of mountain viticulture.
Howell Mountain's vineyards begin at 1,400 feet above sea level, soaring to heights of 2,200 feet. This elevated position places the vines above the fog line that often blankets the valley floor, creating a unique microclimate that sets Howell Mountain apart. Here, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes bask in abundant sunshine, developing intense flavors and thick skins that translate into wines of remarkable depth and longevity.
The soils of Howell Mountain tell a story millions of years in the making. Predominantly volcanic in origin, these iron-rich, red clay soils are punctuated by volcanic ash and tufa. Poor in nutrients but rich in character, they force the vines to struggle, producing small, concentrated berries that form the backbone of Howell Mountain's famously intense Cabernets.
Howell Mountain's climate is a study in contrasts. While the elevation provides cooler average temperatures than the valley floor, the position above the fog allows for greater sun exposure. This unique combination leads to a longer growing season, allowing Cabernet Sauvignon to achieve optimal ripeness while maintaining crucial acidity. The significant diurnal temperature shifts further contribute to the development of complex flavors and firm tannins.
Winemaking on Howell Mountain is not for the faint of heart. The challenging terrain and low-vigor soils naturally limit yields, often to just 2-3 tons per acre. This scarcity is a blessing in disguise, concentrating flavors and resulting in wines of incredible intensity. The demanding environment requires meticulous vineyard management, with many sites requiring dry farming techniques that further stress the vines and concentrate flavors.
When we pour a glass of Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, we're immediately struck by its deep, almost opaque color – a visual precursor to the intensity that follows. Aromas of blackberry, black currant, and plum mingle with notes of espresso, dark chocolate, and a hint of chaparral herb. On the palate, these wines reveal their true nature: powerful and structured, with firm, gripping tannins and a core of dark fruit that seems to unfold endlessly. The finish often carries a distinct mineral note, a final reminder of the wine's volcanic origins.
Our 2022 MYTHICAL Cabernet Sauvignon draws inspiration from Howell Mountain's uncompromising power. While not exclusively from this AVA, it incorporates the intensity and structure that Howell Mountain brings to the blend. The inclusion of fruit from Howell Mountain vineyards lends our wine a backbone of firm tannins and concentrated dark fruit that complements the elegance of our other mountain and valley floor sources, creating a wine of both power and finesse.
As climate change continues to reshape the viticultural landscape, Howell Mountain's elevated position may prove increasingly valuable. Its cooler temperatures and unique soils could provide a refuge for producing structured, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon in a warming Napa Valley.
In essence, Howell Mountain's impact on Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is one of intensity and longevity. It challenges us to embrace the power that mountain-grown fruit can bring to a wine, while appreciating the nuanced complexity that comes from struggling vines and volcanic soils. It reminds us that sometimes, the most profound expressions of a place come from the most challenging environments.
As we savor a glass of our MYTHICAL Cabernet Sauvignon, we raise a toast to Howell Mountain – a testament to nature's raw power and the dedicated vintners who harness its gifts to create wines of extraordinary depth and character.
Liquid Stories by Aaron Pott.
Presented by Anthony Perliss.
