Tasting Profile

HG III is classified as a red wine blend. It is comprised of declassified lots of wine from the Hourglass program and other Napa Valley fruit sources we have obtained. It’s a blend of Merlot, Cabernet and a third varietal that may vary from year to year depending on what the blend requires. In 2012 the third varietal is Malbec. 

Where our estate wines are structured for longer term cellaring and distinguish the classic characteristics of their sites, the lots that comprise HG III tend to be more fruit forward and are blended in a style ideally suited for younger consumption. Merlot provides a soft textural mouth feel, Cabernet extends length and richness and the third varietal provides whatever completing elements may be needed to finish the blend. 

Aromatically, HG III explodes with toasted hazelnuts and bright, pure red fruits - black cherry, and raspberry. On the palate Merlot and Malbec deliver deep color and richness with a plush, silky texture, while Cabernet extends the finish adding layers of dark fruit (blackberry puree) with Asian hoisin/plum to balance the tangy red fruit core. The texture is dense and creamy, expressive of pure Napa fruit.     

~Jeff Smith, January 2016

Other Vintages

2017 Hourglass III
2016 Hourglass III
2015 Hourglass III
2014 Hourglass III
2013 Hourglass III