Girard '21 Napa Valley Artistry Mixed Red

73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Malbec, 8% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc

The 2021 Artistry is a complex and sophisticated wine. The nose reveals aromas of cassis, black cherry swirling with aromas of vanilla, espresso and tobacco. The palate is rich and full-bodied with flavors of ripe, lush black fruits, hints of chocolate and savory spice. Firm and refined tannins framed by well-integrated oak provide structure and balance leading to a lingering finish.

The growing season started with a wet January and February, then nearly no rain for the remainder of the season. The dry weather resulted in early spring budbreak, followed by early flowering, bloom, and fruit set. Calm spring and summer temperatures with no concerning heat spikes allowed for even veraison in July. Due in part to continued drought conditions the yields were naturally lower resulting in optimal ripening of intensely concentrated and very flavorful berries.

For over four decades Girard has produced a “red wine” blend from our best barrel lots. In 2003 we found a fitting name for this blend that promotes the artistic side of winemaking. It is in the blending process that we feel “Artistry” finds its best representation.

We source Cabernet Sauvignon from St. Helena, Oakville, Diamond Mountain and Pope Valley, areas for our Artistry blend, treasured for their ability to offer ripe tannins and bold flavors. Merlot from Yountville and Rutherford lends lush texture and black fruit flavors, while Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot from Pope Valley provide floral aromatics and layered fruit flavors. Petit Verdot is often the latest ripening variety, and it contributes to the palate weight, tannin structure and floral aromatics of the final blend. The mélange of fruit, hailing from both hillside and valley floor vineyards unites in a singular, focused expression.