*Blend: 98% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc
*Vintage production: c.290 cases
*Blankiet Estate is nestled above Yountville on the western foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains. The Paradise Hills Vineyard is carved on steep hillsides just above the famed Dominus Estate Napanook parcel that was originally planted in 1838 by Yountville’s founder, George C. Yount.
With an ideal eastern exposure, the land is bathed with morning sun and benefits from natural shade in the hot afternoons, and cool breezes from the San Pablo Bay flow constantly across the land. It’s located on three volcanic knolls where soil profiles vary from deeply fractured rocks and volcanic ash, to thick clay deposits, meaning each parcel is distinguished by a unique subsoil and microclimate.
At just 6.5 hectares in size it’s a remarkably small site, yet the incredible complexity of the terroir allows for three distinct wines, each of a singular style. This is an Estate at the top of its game. Combined with the very talented winemaker Graeme MacDonald and owner Claude Blankiet’s attention to detail, is truly worthy of an exploration.
