2011 —like 2010 before it— was a difficult year with cooler-than-average temperatures and significant rainfall leading into the harvest in mid-October. Though yields were down in nearly every one of our Cabernet Sauvignon blocks, spectacular quality was achieved in the Clone 30 at Ghielmetti Estate, Clone 7 at Home Ranch, and Clone 8 at the Smith Ranch vineyards. Both Cabernet Franc and Merlot take on significant roles in this vintage, accounting for more than a third of the blend, while Petit Verdot and Malbec add complexity and structure. The 2011 vintage marks our fifth release. In keeping with the austere nature of the vintage, LINEAGE displays great restraint in the nose in its youth. Black fruits, lead pencil, fennel pollen, and coffee notes dominate. On entry, enlivening acidity, which plays an impressive role in this wine’s extremely long finish, elevates the substantial black fruit flavors and serves as a counterbalance to LINEAGE’s tannin and wood. The overall feel of LINEAGE is one of beauty and elegance. There is certainly the tannic structure present to guarantee long aging, but sheer power never trumps the wine’s more lithe and vital core. Drink from 2017 — 2030.