2003 Charbono

Native of southern France or northern Italy, Charbono arrived in California in the 1800s and gained favor as a body-builder and overall intensifier when blended with the early Napa Cabernets. Most "Charbonophiles" associate this variety with Inglenook which is where I fell in love with it in the 1960s. My Charbono is grown by Gary Heitz, former Inglenook grower, who provides profoundly expressive fruit from which I craft deep rich cuvees. Small percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and new French oak complete the assemblage of this inspiring red wine.