Napa County Soil Series

Hambright with some Guenoc.

Soil characteristics

The soils found in these blocks are characterized by volcanic red/yellow clay loam mixed with variably sized boulders and fractured, decomposing rock.

Topography

This warm area with gentle south-to-steep-south-facing exposures is one of the best and most typical Cabernet Sauvignon areas of Stagecoach.  The slight south-facing slope, rocky but uniform soils, and the location nestled between two ridges all contribute to the ideal setting of this region.

Climate

Although the ridges protect the area from some of the valley breezes, the area is close enough to the mouth of the Napa Valley and Rector Canyon to give it a good marine influence.  Most of these blocks are naturally buffered from extreme conditions such as winds and very high or low temperatures. One exception to this is the top of the T blocks (T1-3).  These have a very different light brown soil and are perched on a ridge that is almost always above the fog and is completely exposed to both wind and sun.

Resulting fruit

Overall, the Heart of Stagecoach offers a protected site allowing the blocks to grow stronger canopies and develop tannin structures that are perfectly married with rich fruit. Not surprisingly, many stand-alone wines as well as core pieces of blends derive from this area.