Morlet Estate

St. Helena

Surrounding the historic 1880 winery in St. Helena, the ‘Morlet Estate’ vineyard is planted to 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. The porous cemented volcanic ash in the soils provides a higher mineral content, leading to a refined wine recognized as a Napa Valley First Growth.

The soils represent both volcanic and alluvial origins. The 17-acre property is mapped as Hambright-Rock Outcrops. These well-draining soils were derived from weathered volcanic tuffa/ash (Hambright) mixed with uplifted river sediment and metamorphized rock (Felta).

The seventeen acres offer a variety of microclimates due to variations in degrees of slope and sun exposure. Luc Morlet developed this vineyard in three main sections, each with increasing elevations.

Foothills Block

This block has an elevation of 240-250 feet and a 5% slope. Containing the most alluvial and deepest topsoil of the estate, this section leads to rounder and softer tannins. With full sun exposure, this north-east facing portion of the vineyard provides elegance and the gras (oily texture) for the wine.

house with a front yard of trees and back round of vineyards on a hill with large trees

Hillside Block

With a relatively steep slope of 25-29%, this block rests at 260-310 feet in elevation. The topsoil is shallower than the Foothills section of the estate but deeper than the Ridge. With shade only in the very late afternoon, but with the same sun exposure as Foothills, this area of the vineyard brings concentration and freshness, providing the core of the wine.

Birds Eye view of large hill covered with trees and vineyard rows

Ridge Block

Situated from 340-440 feet in elevation with a northern aspect and a 22-25% slope, this block has only six to eight inches of topsoil. The vines struggle the most, resulting in the smallest yield. Furthermore, full sun exposure causes the fruit to ripen earlier, leading to a highly structured and concentrated wine while providing the frame for the ‘Morlet Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon.