Vineyard Profile: Estate Vineyard
Located on a mountainside high above Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County, the rocky soils of Montemaggiore's estate vineyards produce intensely flavored grapes at naturally low yields. Using biodynamic practices and organic materials, we farm Paolo's Vineyard without chemical fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides.

2008 Vintage
The 2008 growing season was one of extremes with a dry spring, excessive heat during boom, a record-early harvest, and extremely low yields.  The last rain was in February, and the sunny dry spring led to a March budbreak about two weeks early.  During bloom in May, the temperature swung up to 60°F between daytime and nighttime, thus our fruit set was poor (leading to yields being down 40%).  Summer temperatures were fairly moderate although August had some fairly hot days.  Harvest started on September 6th, the earliest in Montemaggiore history.

Winemaker's Goal
With the Nobile blend, Cabernet's strengths (structure, ageability, and depth) are combined with syrah's strengths (breadth of flavors, soft tannins)—thereby yielding a wine that's appealing fruit aromas, easy to drink young or aged, and a lot of complexity to keep you sipping! More on Nobile Winemaking ▶

Food Pairings
Being a balanced blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, this wine goes well with the dishes that traditionally go well with each varietal.  

Nobile pairs well with a grilled steak, braised short ribs, grilled sausage, roasted squash, braised lamb shanks, and polenta with grilled portobellos.

Consider our recipe for osso buco.

Accolades