2019 Hourglass HG III Proprietary Blend

The idea of Hourglass originated from a place, but would eventually become a human journey of discovery. The interplay of terroir and artistic intent produces wines with a unique personality that possess an intriguing dialectic: rich in layers of concentration yet lively with an edge of tension; classically structured yet silky in texture; undoubtedly modern but with traditional stripes.

Tony Biagi is a postmodernist, in life and how he practices his craft as a winemaker. One of his many unique talents is his ability to synthesize traditional techniques with cutting-edge theory - a classicist/modernist yin and yang. He approaches winemaking as an artist informed by science, accepting that there is a certain alchemy to winemaking that may never be fully understood.

Tony explains: “Think of winemaking as putting together a complex puzzle, and each puzzle piece has a synergistic response to the other. Change one of the pieces and you change the whole picture. We want the photo to have certain focal points and counterpoints. Within each vintage, we make meticulous decisions in our farming and winemaking based on the differences each year brings - shaping each puzzle piece - to give us the most vibrant, multi-dimensional picture: with our Cabernet Sauvignon, for example, a piece of pure black fruit for depth, a tangy sour piece for lift, a color piece to match with a tannic piece to affect the refined structure; one for smooth texture, one for length, one for aromatics, etc… Then we start combining the individual pieces together as early as possible and we give them 22 months in French oak so that they can integrate into a whole.”

As demonstrated in his 2012 debut year with Hourglass, Tony approaches the puzzle from the middle and builds his wines from the inside out. He first establishes a classical structural core, using the most advanced means to encourage tannin and color to bond in a tight weave. “That relationship between tannin and color is essential to everything else we do; we go to great lengths in our vineyard practices, maceration protocols and cellaring procedures to encourage that," he explains. Once the weave is refined, Tony builds a mouthfeel around it with layers of silky texture depth, highlighting the purity of fruit expression. "I want that my wines are rich, but if that's all they become one-dimensional and monotonous," he outlines. To this end, Tony pairs richness with acidity and minerality, bringing energy into the equation. This counterbalance results in a sum that lives on the palate while he is deeply concentrated.

Jeff and Tony met through a tasting group of Napa's most promising young winemakers, discovered a synergy of ideas and quickly developed what they call a "mutual mentorship". “We had both had 20 years and had followed the pendulum swing of maturity that Napa had experienced. We learned a lot in the process and have very clear ideas about what we want to keep and what we want to refine,” notes Jeff.

Jeff continues by pointing out, “We are in a refining phase of what we started about 20 years ago. Our goal is to edit very precise moments where grape chemistry is in balance. The goal is not to do one or chasing another mythical ideal of a vineyard's "ultimate expression of terroir" as if by magic. The goal is to find our ultimate expression of that vineyard. Terroir is real, but it is subject to interpretation. We drive to find a balance point where the vineyard delivers the dialectical puzzle pieces we're looking for, and if we get that right, Tony's got what he needs to work his magic.

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.