2020 The Flag Collection

Introducing the second vintage of our newest Cabernet Sauvignon made from the select blocks and barrels that represent the pinnacle of wines Bell Mountain Vineyard produces. The Flag is named in honor of Ames’ great-great-grandfather, John Gilson Howell, who owned and published the Russian River Flag newspaper in Healdsburg in the 1860-1870s. This wine epitomizes the bedrock of the idealism and commitment for preserving Bell Mountain and the peak of wines this land produces for generations. To honor the wine and our history, each bottle is adorned with the reprint of the original publisher’s editorial on the first edition that Ames’ great-great-grandfather printed on November 19, 1868.

The 2020 Flag Cabernet Sauvignon is a rich, tannic, and bold statement of Bell Mountain Vineyard. Hazelnuts, black forest, toasted coconut with a rich spice greet the senses. Dark juicy plum, green herbs, licorice and balsamic reduction are present on the palate. Evolving big tannins with a bold earthiness and our distinctive juicy acidity create a feeling of umami on the finish.  

Vintage

With half the average rainfall during the winter and spring, there was minimal vegetative growth. Cooler spring temperatures and a spurt of heavy rain during flowering led to an extremely light crop. The combination of these both created concentration, depth, and substantial density in the fruit. Several short heat spikes and a smaller crop load created optimal conditions for early ripening. We were fortunate to pick everything early, escaping any smoke damage from the devastating wildfires throughout California.