Nestled into the base of the Mayacamas Mountains along Mill Creek at the northern terminus of the St. Helena sub-appellation, Bale Mill Creek has its roots in one of the classic alluvial fans of the Napa Valley.
The original plantings, dating back to the early 1990’s, sit in gravelly soils studded with obsidian stones brought across the valley from Glass Mountain by the Native Americans that once camped along the creek. This vineyard is farmed “beyond organic” by Jim Gamble to cordon trained vines, low to the ground, that undulate along the alluvial fan allowing for wines of deep color. A cool evening breeze brought over the mountains from the Pacific Ocean assists in balancing the vineyard’s depth with a natural freshness, complementing the aromatically unique fruit from this well-draining site.
Land Elevation | 350 ft
AVA | St. Helena
Soil | Alluvial Loam
Released | Spring 2024
Winemaker's Notes | The 2021 Bale Mill Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is deep garnet-purple in color. It leaps with notes of crushed blackcurrants, juicy black plums, and mulberries followed by nuances of tilled soil, bay leaves, and charcoal. The full-bodied palate delivers mouth-coating black fruits with a fine-grained, approachable texture and bright acidity to support, finishing long with impressive purity.
Released | Spring 2022 Sold Out
Winemaker's Notes | The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Bale Mill Creek Vineyard opens with lovely aromatics before reclaiming its charming, mid-weight personality. More plum, violets, incense, and new leather notes emerge, a medium to full-bodied wine. 50 cases.
Released | Spring 2021 Sold Out
Winemaker's Notes | In the glass, aromas of classic red fruits and crushed cherry mingle with wildflowers and clove. On the palate, the wine’s texture coats the mouth like bittersweet chocolate and provides an endless finish. A layered depth lingers and reflects harmony between vineyard and cellar.