Ellman Family Vineyards
- Based in Napa, CA, they have a tasting studio in downtown Napa that is by appointment only
- Produce 1500-1800 cases a year across Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Sauvignon Musque clone of Sauvignon Blanc.
Founded by brothers Neil and Lance Ellman, the Ellman Estate Vineyard is a 20-acre, west-facing parcel of vineyards along the historic Silverado Trail which is nestled at the base of Soda Canyon in the shadows of Atlas Peak. The vines grow in an ancient riverbed. Because the vineyard is planted on the bench of the Vaca Mountains, the vines benefit from traits of both valley floor and hillside characteristics. The soil is strewn with cobbles and rocks, stressing the vines and offering optimal drainage.
2017 'Jemma' Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
- 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
- 350 cases produced
- 22 months in barrel, in a combination of new and used oak
- $125/bottle
Vineyard: 79% Ellman Estate Vineyard, 21% Vine Hill Ranch
Winemaker: Andy Erickson | Resume – Screaming Eagle, Harlan Estate, Dalle Valle, Ovid, To Kalon, Favia.
Tasting Notes: Named for Neil Ellman’s wife, 2017 marks the 11th year producing the Jemma Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon wine. This vintage is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. It is sourced from the Ellman Estate Vineyard and Vine Hill Ranch.
With an intense ruby taste, the 2017 Jemma has expressive aromatics of elderberries, black currants and a myriad of bramble fruits, peppered with hints of graphite, caramel and thyme. On the palate, it has a lush fruit profile of blackberry compote, plum clafoutis and a basket full of Bing cherries. Muscular and weighty on the palate, the dark fruit character is precisely framed by focused tannins and an enduring, lengthy finish. Aptly paired with a classic Beef Bourguignon or a simple dry-aged New York strip!