Inviting from the start, the dynamic but polished 2020 Salus Cabernet Sauvignon opens with a burst of dark red fruit, sweet damp soil, a taught line of freshness, and pleasing density. Ribbons of warm cedar, subtle menthol, exotic dark chocolate, and fresh earth dance gracefully across the palate with a balanced energy from the lively acidity and refined tannins. The sustained, charming, and fully resolved finish suggest a wine for enjoyment without long cellar aging required. 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc
The 2020 growing season commenced with a dry, mild winter resulting in early budbreak. March rain re-invigorated the vines and provided the potential for a small crop of excellent quality. As we welcomed summer, cool nights and foggy mornings compensated for the hot and sundrenched afternoons. Due to the season’s early start the Bordeaux varietals reached maturity in mid-September. We worked around the clock to pick and meticulously sort this fruit over the course of 8 days finishing on September 26th, fortunate to have everything in just one day before the start of the Glass Fire. True to our goals, we forged
through the challenging conditions of 2020 to produce beautiful and sound site driven wines showcasing our special vineyard.
The Staglin Family Vineyard has a 130 year heritage of viticulture and a rich social history based on an extraordinary procession of owners through multiple generations, but ultimately purchased by the Staglin family in 1985 creating a dynamic, world class winery. Today the Staglin’s own nearly 62 acres of prime land in the heart of the Rutherford Appellation. Their 51 acres of vineyards are located on coveted bench land soils. These deep slightly gravelly brownish soils were formed during millions of years because of erosion and run off from the nearby Mayacamas mountains. As a result of this type of soil, its excellent drainage and the climate, this is excellent terroir for growing Cabernet Sauvignon.