Black currant and figs with layers of almond and African violets. Rich, fruity mouthfeel lingers long.

Every year Newton crafts a single paramount wine that represents the finest expression of its Spring Mountain Estate. Much like finding the right pieces to a puzzle, the winemaker hand selects fruit from 112 separate vineyard blocks. To preserve the unique character of each parcel, the fruit remains isolated by vineyard block for natural fermentation and barrel aging. Working patiently and in harmony with nature, Newton produces an artful blend so profound and complex that it is known as The Puzzle.

Wine maker notes

The color on this wine is terrific—dark and inky red. The Spring Mountain terroir makes itself known early with aromas of blackberry brambles and cassis, followed by juniper, manzanita and sage high notes. Intense and concentrated, the 2009 The Puzzle on the palate has generous vanilla, mocha and blackberry syrup flavors mingling with toasted cedar, spices, and bittersweet chocolate. The tannins are full and plush, providing tremendous structure for this big, rich wine with its long finish.

Technical notes

Varietal Composition: Cabernet Sauvignon is the largest and then a bit of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot Vineyard Source: Newton Estate on Spring Mountain Soil Types: Chalky, gravelly loam and shells, compact sand Vineyard Elevations: 700 feet to 1,400 feet Fermentation Method: Using natural yeasts and soft and frequent pump overs at a warm gentle temperature (70 degrees F) Aged: 22 months in half new, half 1 year old French oak barrels Harvest Dates: End of September to end of October Bottling Date: Late summer 2002

Producer

Newton Vineyard was named by Robert Parker as one of the World’s 100 Greatest Wine Estates. It is a spectacular winery with terraced vineyards, on the dramatic slopes of Spring Mountain. The winery is known for naturally fermented, unfiltered wines handcrafted with estate-grown fruit from Spring Mountain and Carneros.