Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/4337
november 2009 / the tasting panel / 47 Lattin points out. Whereas the soils on nearby Pritchard Hill and Atlas Peak are volcanic, "we're sedimen- tary—a weathered sandstone that's really shaley and very fast-draining." Using natural methods, such as sheep grazing to control under- growth, the winery is "as low-impact as possible," says Lattin. Because of the long, leisurely harvest, late-rip- ening blocks can be adjusted at sea- son's end based on already-crushed grapes from the same vintage—a winemaker's dream. Mountain Due "I want the Zinfandel [SRP $40] to tasty bright and juicy and grapey," declares Lattin; "to me, that's the charm of Zinfandel." This classic California varietal is ideal with the rustic Cal-Mediterranean cuisine that Pat Kuleto favors, but the Syrah (SRP $45) comes in neck-in-neck with the Zin for food-friendliness. "The Syrah here is pretty special stuff," boasts Lattin; the deep, dusky wine explodes with ripe black fruit, spice and meaty flavors. This being Napa, Cabernet naturally plays a big part at Kuleto Estate. "With 45 separate Cabernet Sauvignon blocks—as well as Cab Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Ver- dot—in any year we can make any kind of Cabernet that exists from a flavor and structure standpoint," says Lattin. "The Estate Cabernet [SRP $60] is our go-to Cab, with no extreme elements." Four proprietary Cabernets— blends created through block, clone, lot and barrel selection—are de- signed to showcase various aspects of the Kuleto terroir: carnal Syrah- like India Ink; heady, brambly Native Son; spicy, floral Villa Vista; and herbal Frog Prince, a Bordeaux-like release that will appear with the 2006 vintage (SRP $80 each). "The block designates show how differently Cabernet can behave on this piece of property," claims Lattin. "I wanted to show off what this estate can do." With ideal terroir and a winemaker like Lattin in charge, the partnership that is Kuleto Estate is a win-win-win situation—for the founder, for the new owner and for the end con- sumer. If you'd like to see for your- self, visitors are gladly welcomed by appointment; call 707-302-220. www.kuletoestate.com The intense Kuleto Estate Cabernet shows its legs. Winemaker David Lattin.