2020 Far Mountain 'Fission' Moon Mountain District, Cabernet Sauvignon

Far Mountain is the vision of husband-and-wife team Rodrigo Soto and Mai Errazuriz. After decades making wine for some of the leading estates across North and South America, they set out to create something of their own. Their belief is that California's finest wines come from its mountain vineyards, where altitude, poor soils and cooler conditions produce wines of greater character and balance.

Since their first vintage in 2019, Far Mountain has earned a reputation as one of California's most exciting new wineries, producing small quantities of beautifully crafted wines that express the unique character of their sites.

'Fission' comes from a remarkable vineyard in the Moon Mountain District, high in the Sonoma Valley. The Cabernet Sauvignon vines are over 50 years old, dry-farmed and deeply rooted in volcanic basalt and granite soils. These mature vines naturally produce low yields of intensely flavoured fruit, while the mountain location and cool nights help preserve freshness and elegance. The vineyard's steep slopes mean harvesting takes place gradually, with the fruit picked only when each section reaches perfect ripeness.

The grapes are handled as gently as possible, with whole berries fermented in open-top tanks to preserve purity and texture. Extraction is deliberately restrained, allowing the fruit and the vineyard to take centre stage. The wine is then matured for twelve months in French oak, with just over a quarter new barrels, adding subtle complexity while maintaining balance and finesse.

Rich aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry and dark cherry are layered with hints of graphite, crushed rock and dried herbs. The palate is concentrated yet remarkably refined, with silky tannins, vibrant acidity and a savoury mineral edge that reflects its volcanic origins. Powerful without being heavy, this is a beautifully balanced Cabernet Sauvignon that will reward cellaring but is already incredibly impressive in the glass.

The name **'Fission'** is a nod to the volcanic soils that define the vineyard, giving the wine its distinctive mineral character and sense of place.

Suitable for vegetarians and vegans.