The 2011 Futo is clearly one of the best Cabs of the vintage; it really has everything one wants in a wine. The bouquet offers plenty of cassis, blueberry, and cassis. The palate is surprisingly rich and finely textured, with layers of ripe blue and black fruit, hints of toast, and the suggestion of savoriness without being over bearing. This is a monumental effort in a very challenging vintage.

Futo Winery

Futo Wines began in 2002 when Tom and Kyle Futo purchased Oakford Vineyards. Oakford, a 40 acre property with 7 acres of vineyard, had been established in the 80’s by Chuck and Cathy Ball. In 2004, an adjoining 117 acre parcel was added to the property, of which 6 acres were planted to vineyard under the direction of David Abreu and winemaker Mark Aubert. This expansion prompted the Futos to pursue an estate model and architect Howard Backen was called upon to design the winery. The winery was completed in time to receive the 2008 harvest. Also that year, Jason Exposto was hired to manage the day-to-day winemaking. By 2010, full winemaking responsibilities were handed to Jason. Late in 2011, the Futos completed the purchase of a property in the eastern hills of Stags Leap District. This 40 acre property included a 9 acre Cabernet vineyard planted in 1986. (futowines.com)