We turn our attention with this vintage to the Chalk Hill AVA, a region renowned for its chalky white, volcanically derived soils, its warmer microclimate relative to the rest of the Russian River Valley, and its world-class Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc production. Despite its name, the terroir does not feature true chalk. Instead, it is made of decomposed volcanic ash (quartzite-rich volcanic tuff) deposited by ancient eruptions from nearby Mount Saint Helena. This bright white, mildly fertile soil forces grapevines to struggle, resulting in low yields and highly concentrated, complex fruit. The hillside slopes capture plenty of sun, and warmer vineyard blocks excel at ripening robust red varieties. The region is highly regarded for its structured Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah varieties. This Cabernet, from a single vineyard due East of Healdsburg provides ripe cassis and berry flavors, savory notes, oak toast and plenty of chewy tannins.