2018 Skipstone Faultline Vineyard
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S$25988
Vintage: 2018
Country: USA
Region: Alexander Valley
About Winery
Skipstone is tucked between two stunning hillsides in the mountains above Alexander Valley. We aspire to perfection in every aspect of our wine growing and estate farming, drawing inspiration from the unparalleled potential and promise of the earth. Uncompromising in our standards of sustainability and treatment of the land, we are committed to nurturing the precious resource that is our 200 acre estate. Blessed by nature, we listen intently to the terroir of our vineyards, and in turn, our wines speak eloquently of their origin.
About Winery
Skipstone is tucked between two stunning hillsides in the mountains above Alexander Valley. We aspire to perfection in every aspect of our wine growing and estate farming, drawing inspiration from the unparalleled potential and promise of the earth. Uncompromising in our standards of sustainability and treatment of the land, we are committed to nurturing the precious resource that is our 200 acre estate. Blessed by nature, we listen intently to the terroir of our vineyards, and in turn, our wines speak eloquently of their origin.
95 points Jeb Dunnuck
The Cabernet Franc-dominated 2016 Faultline Vineyard (there’s 40% Merlot) is brilliant. It comes all from the estate vineyard in Alexander Valley and was brought up in 65% new French oak. Reminding me of a top vintage of Figeac with its blackcurrants, tobacco, earth, and graphite aromas and flavors, it’s full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful on the palate, yet has remarkable purity and finesse. It shows more classic forest floor and chocolate notes with time in the glass, has ripe tannins, and great intensity and length. Drink it over the coming two decades. 
(6/2019)
92-94 points Vinous
The 2016 Faultline Vineyard is shaping up to be a fabulous follow up to the 2015. Dark, explosive and totally alluring, the 2016 has a lot to offer. Crème de cassis, lavender, menthol, licorice, torrefaction and spice are given an extra kick of energy from the wine's structure and aromatic intensity. There is so much to look forward to. (AG) (4/2018)
93 points James Suckling
A very focused and balanced red with blackberries, blueberries and hints of lemon grass. Medium to full body. Flavorful, focused finish. Tight and balanced. Drink after 2022. (2/2020)
93 points Wine Advocate
A blend of 59% Cabernet Franc and 41% Merlot aged for 18 months in 65% new French oak, the 2016 Faultline Vineyard Proprietary Red is deep purple-black colored and features a nose of kirsch, red currant jelly, black raspberries and preserved plums with touches of pencil shavings, tobacco leaf and damp soil. The palate is medium to full-bodied, firm and grainy with muscular fruit and a long, mineral-laced finish. 490 cases produced. (LPB) 93+ (10/2018)
