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Located at the base of the majestic Mayacamas Mountains in the heart of Saint Helena, the Ehlers Estate vineyard is a place steeped in history. Grapes have been growing on this land since the 1800s. The story of Ehlers Estate began in 1886 when a beautiful stone winery was built, marking a lasting dedication to winemaking. Today, the talented winemaking team at Ehlers Estate continues this legacy, crafting small batches of world-class wines.

Owned by the Leducq Charitable Trust, established by the visionary Jean and Sylviane Leducq in 1996, Ehlers Estate embodies the American Dream rooted in a love for food, wine, and a touch of Bordeaux-inspired charm.

The vineyards, which are certified organic by the California Organic Farmers Organization (CCOF), yield grapes of unparalleled quality. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Sauvignon Blanc thrive under the nurturing care of Ehlers Estate's viticultural team.

Jean Leducq's journey from post-war Europe to the heights of American business success is a testament to his indomitable spirit. This adventure took Jean from the linen factories of Europe to the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley, where he pursued his dream of creating wines to rival the finest Bordeaux vintages.  

Adam Henkel, who joined Ehlers Estate in 2022, is the current winemaker. His resume reads like a who’s who of the wine world. Trained under the legendary Philippe Melka, Adam gained invaluable experience working with some of Napa Valley’s most celebrated estates. His time with Staglin Family Vineyard and Lail Vineyards shaped his approach to crafting wines that honor the vineyard’s essence. At Ehlers, Adam’s commitment to sustainability and organic farming ensures every bottle reflects both the terroir and the meticulous care behind the winemaking process.

2022 was a year that was full of bright, sunny days that California is so famous for. An abundant, early winter rains recharged our reservoirs and collective spirits, giving way to a temperate, verdant spring bursting with life.

Early bud break was followed by a warm, dry summer and a particularly toasty September that kicked off the harvest into high gear. As is so often the case, the feeling of a blue-sky summer is captured in the wines it produced. Open and delicious, the 2022 vintage is one to please both immediate and distant enjoyment alike.

Aging: 21 months Barrel Aging in 65% new French Oak

ABV: 14.5%

Blend: 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16.4% Cabernet Franc, 16.3% Merlot, 1.3% Petit Verdot

2022 Portrait has an exhilarating nose, starting with bursts of warm blackberry crumble with fresh cream on top, followed by waves of baking spice, mint, sage and crushed rocks.

Finely textured tannins underpin vivid flavors of blueberries, crushed plums and wet river stone that wash across the palate, while a cool, pulsating thread of acid lifts and electrifies the experience throughout the entire impressive length of the finish. 

In all dimensions, the wine vacillates with intensity between the elements, creating a wonderful sensation of energy and tension. Really quite an exciting personality.

NYR.

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