2018 Forman Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Influenced early on by the wines and winemaking practices of the Bordeaux region of France, I have consistently sought a comparable perfection for the wines of Forman Vineyard. If I had to pick two words that embody the character of Forman Vineyard wines, it would be finesse and elegance. As a sole proprietor, I have the luxury of personally taking care of the wines at every stage of production - from harvesting to blending, bottling and maturing. In an age of anonymous ownership, this kind of hands-on approach to winemaking is becoming increasingly rare. For me, this is the only way great wines can be made and made to share with wine lovers.
Ric Forman

At Forman, every step of the production process is in the hands of one man: Ric Forman. The vineyard is located on a ridge at the foot of Howell mountain overlooking the town of St Helena. The area is divided into four plots on which the grape varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot grow. Forman Vineyard was founded in 1983 and produced a small amount of classic Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

After a three-year search in the Napa Valley for the perfect location, Rik Forman purchased the current winery/vineyard in 1978, which sits on a ridge at the base of Howell Mountain overlooking the city of St. Helena. This remarkable location has produced some unusually elegant wines from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. A philosophy of winemaking that takes a more traditional than technological approach appealed to Forman early on in his career. Familiarity with the European tradition has greatly influenced his style.

Grapes are handled gently from harvest to fermentation. Small stainless steel fermenters for red wines and new Burgundy barrels for white wines are used. Deep caves have been built that provide a cool, dark and humid environment for red wine to mature in peace in new French oak barrels. The wines literally ripen in the soil from which they were grown. The integration of the small stone cellar which is located in the hills, surrounded by a courtyard and contact with the deep caves below gives it an authentic atmosphere.

Napa Valley, nestled in the heart of California, stands as a viticultural gem renowned for its rich history, diverse terroir, and world-class wines. Dating back to the late 18th century, Catholic missions in the region were mandated to produce wine for sacramental use, marking the inception of grape cultivation in California. However, early grape growers and winemakers in California faced challenges, and it took time for the region to earn global recognition.

More information about Napa Valley

The turning point came in 1976 when Chateau Montelena and Stag's Leap Wine Cellars from Napa Valley outshone renowned Bordeaux wines at the historic Paris Wine Tasting. This event signaled a shift in perception, boosting respect for California wines, especially those hailing from Napa Valley.

Situated between two mountain ridges converging from south to north, Napa Valley's geography is as breathtaking as it is conducive to winemaking. The narrow eight-kilometer-wide valley is shaped by the Mayacamas Mountains to the west and the Vaca Range to the east, meeting at Calistoga. The Napa River flows through, splitting the two mountain ridges and giving birth to the renowned Napa Valley.

While Napa Valley represents just 5% of annual U.S. wine production, its global reputation is unparalleled. It was not the first American Viticultural Area (AVA), but it holds a special place as a premier wine region. Located in central California, north of San Pablo Bay, the valley boasts a highly variable climate and an abundance of microclimates due to its narrowness and mountainous surroundings.

The unpredictability of Napa Valley wines, unless familiar with the winery, is attributed to its diverse geology. The valley floor consists of marine sediments, volcanic rock, river deposits, silt, limestone, and sandstone, creating a patchwork of soils. From the volcanic soils in the north ideal for Cabernet to calcareous soils in the south perfect for Pinot Noir, the variety of soils and climates foster a dynamic viticultural environment.

With investments pouring in from prominent wine companies, Napa Valley continues to evolve, solidifying its position as a global wine powerhouse, offering a spectrum of wines that showcase the region's diversity, innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality winemaking.

What about Napa valley's subregions?

Napa Valley, renowned as a viticultural paradise, unfolds its vinous tapestry through a collection of distinctive subregions, each contributing unique characteristics to the valley's diverse and celebrated wines. From the rugged terrains of Howell Mountain to the sun-kissed slopes of Atlas Peak, Napa Valley's subregions are a testament to the region's winemaking prowess.

Howell Mountain: Nestled in the northeast, Howell Mountain stands tall as a premier subregion known for its elevated vineyards. The mountainous terrain, with elevations reaching over 1,400 feet, provides a cooler climate, resulting in wines with robust structure and intense flavors. Howell Mountain is celebrated for producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Viognier, and Zinfandel.

Calistoga: At the northern tip of Napa Valley lies Calistoga, renowned for its warm temperatures and diverse soils. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Zinfandel thrive in this subregion. Calistoga's unique terroir imparts a distinct character to its wines, characterized by boldness and depth.

Diamond Mountain District: Known for its volcanic soils and elevated vineyards, Diamond Mountain District is home to some of Napa Valley's most esteemed Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wines from this subregion are recognized for their elegance, structure, and age-worthiness.

Spring Mountain District: Perched on the western side of Napa Valley, Spring Mountain District boasts a diverse mix of grape varieties, including Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Zinfandel. The elevation and varied microclimates contribute to wines of complexity and balance.

St. Helena: At the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena is a historic subregion that thrives on the cultivation of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Viognier, and Zinfandel. St. Helena's wines often showcase a harmonious blend of power and finesse.

Rutherford: Rutherford, with its iconic dusty terroir, is synonymous with some of Napa Valley's most celebrated Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Zinfandel. The well-drained soils and warm climate contribute to wines known for their structure and longevity.

Oakville: Situated between Rutherford and Yountville, Oakville is recognized for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc. The subregion's gravelly soils and optimal climate create wines of finesse and concentration.

Atlas Peak: The elevated slopes of Atlas Peak, on the eastern side of Napa Valley, are dedicated to growing Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The cooler temperatures and volcanic soils contribute to wines with vibrant acidity and expressive flavors.

Stag's Leap District: Stag's Leap District, known for its dramatic palisades, specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sangiovese, and Sauvignon Blanc. The unique climate and soil combination result in wines recognized for their elegance and finesse.

Yountville: South of St. Helena, Yountville is celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The subregion's climate, influenced by its proximity to the San Pablo Bay, lends itself to wines with a balanced and approachable style.

Mount Veeder: Perched on the southwestern side, Mount Veeder produces outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Zinfandel. The mountainous terrain and volcanic soils contribute to wines of depth and concentration.

Oak Knoll District: Known for its moderate climate, Oak Knoll District produces a diverse array of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc. The balanced conditions create wines that showcase both elegance and structure.

Coombsville: In the southeastern part of Napa Valley, Coombsville is dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. The region's cool evenings and volcanic soils contribute to wines with complexity and finesse.

Wild Horse: Focused on Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, Wild Horse is a subregion that reflects the diversity of Napa Valley's terroir. The wines are known for their expressive fruit character and vibrant acidity.

Each subregion within Napa Valley tells a unique story through its wines, reflecting the interplay of soil, climate, and human expertise. Collectively, they contribute to the rich mosaic that has firmly established Napa Valley as one of the world's premier winegrowing regions.