Napa Valley - Atlas Peak AVA |
In California, less than 3% of the grapes come from vineyards above 1000 feet in elevation. While these coveted sites are few due to the challenges that come with farming mountain vineyards, they are the source of many of America’s most famous wines. Atlas Peak AVA, established in 1992, holds the most prominent peak in the area at 2,663 ft (812 m). Acumen acquired its first vineyard on Atlas Peak in 2012. Originally planted in 1992, the northeast exposure vineyard was the ‘home vineyard’ of Dr. Jan Krupp, predating his famed Stagecoach Vineyard by three years.
- High-altitude sites on steep slopes yield greater solar intensity, producing more flavor and coloring in the skin of the grapes.
- The sloping creates better drainage, which helps lower the vigor of the vine and concentrates the fruit.
- Volcanic soils also help contribute to these features, as well as offer a distinct minerality to the character of the fruit.
- Higher elevations provide cooler evenings, nights, and mornings, thus preserving acidity and the more delicate characteristics of the varietals grown.
- While Cabernet Sauvignon is the signature varietal grown in this appellation, other varietals grown include Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Malbec, Marsanne, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah and Zinfandel.
“While Atlas Peak is very remote, and extremely difficult to plant due to its steep slopes and rocky soils, pioneering winegrowers like Jan Krupp have long known what a remarkable region it is for growing grapes,” says Winemaker Phillip Titus. “It is a place where the grapes can ripen perfectly while retaining the complex structure and tannins that are essential to great Bordeaux-varietal wines.”
“As a winemaker, and a wine lover, my fascination with Atlas Peak has only grown over the years,’ says Phillip. “Those of us who know the mountain vineyards of Napa Valley intimately, know what an extraordinary terroir it offers for growing Bordeaux-varietals. What Acumen has already achieved on Atlas Peak is remarkable. I am excited to work alongside the Acumen team to establish new benchmarks for the wines of Atlas Peak.”
Our vineyard is currently not open to the public. We are always happy to hear from you. Please contact info at acumenwine.com for more information.