With only 4 acres at 1350′ elevation, the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot must all work hard, rooting deep to find water and nutrients in the rocky volcanic hillsides. Good sun exposure, but lack of topsoil and close-row planting all combine in addition to steep slopes to produce concentrated, layered fruit. 

Winemaker Victoria Coleman is a protege of Michael Silacci (winemaker at Opus One) since their time together at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and holds the distinction of being the first black woman to graduate enology/viticulture from UC Davis. She is also thus, Napa’s first black woman winemaker. She began crafting the Cabernet wines for Lobo in 2008 after graduating Davis and doing a season at Chateau Mouton Rothschild and now makes everything in their lineup but the Chardonnay. 

Lobo produces Chardonnay, a Rose of Pinot Noir, Pinot Noir, a valley-floor Cab, a Syrah/Cab blend, Atlas Peak Merlot, and Atlas Peak Cabernet. All Lobo wines are 100% estate-grown, single-vineyard products. All Lobo wines consistently score extravagantly with 90+ points from the most discerning wine critics and publications. The winery is called “The Caves at Soda Canyon” and has breathtaking views of the valley. Private tours and tastings can be arranged through lobowines.com.

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