Stylistic differences between Cabernet Sauvignon from hillside and valley floor vineyards in Napa are very evident. Briefly, hillside vineyards are characterized by greater variation in soils and orientation, are more exposed to winds and enjoy warmer nights but lower daytime temperatures. 

The valley floor AVAs, such as Los Carneros, Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford, Stags Leap District and St. Helena, have mainly alluvial soils and cooler nights (leading to generally lower pH levels than in hillside vineyards). 

Some valley floor AVAs have lower temperatures than others, such as Wild Horse Valley, the coolest of all Napa AVAs.The sheer number of these AVAs points to the region’s diversity, with each of the 16 possessing distinct attributes. Although we love the fruit from the valley floor we try to include as much hillside fruit as possible in the makeup of our sturdy yet graceful Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Reserve wine expressions.