Diamond Creek Volcanic Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1968 by Al and Adelle “Boots” Brounstein, Diamond Creek Vineyards was the first Napa Valley estate to produce single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Situated on Diamond Mountain, the estate comprises distinct vineyard blocks—Volcanic Hill, Red Rock Terrace, Gravelly Meadow, and the rare Lake Vineyard—each showcasing unique terroirs. In 2020, the estate was acquired by Maison Louis Roederer, a French Champagne house, which has since implemented vineyard and cellar enhancements to honor the winery’s legacy while refining its classic style.

Producer and Winemaker

Under Roederer’s ownership, Graham Wehmeier became only the third winemaker in Diamond Creek’s history. Wehmeier’s approach emphasizes earlier harvesting, reduced oak influence, and gentler extraction techniques to produce wines that reflect the estate’s original vision of elegance and terroir expression.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Volcanic Hill is an 8-acre, south-facing vineyard characterized by light, fluffy ash soils deposited from ancient volcanic eruptions. As the warmest microclimate on the estate, it consistently produces Diamond Creek’s most powerful and long-lived wines. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2017 vintage comprises 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Malbec, and 5% Petit Verdot. The wine was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak barrels, enhancing its structure and complexity. 

Tasting Notes

This full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon offers pronounced notes of blackcurrant cordial, boysenberries, baked plums, and kirsch, complemented by hints of cloves, wild sage, and woodsmoke. The palate is rich and layered, with firm tannins and a smoky richness, culminating in a long, satisfying finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

The robust structure and depth of this wine make it an excellent companion to hearty dishes such as grilled ribeye steak, braised short ribs, or lamb shanks. Its complexity also pairs well with aged cheeses and dishes featuring earthy ingredients like mushrooms or truffles.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its complexity, decant the wine for at least one hour before serving at 60–65°F (15–18°C). Using large, bowl-shaped glasses will enhance the aromatic experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

With proper cellaring conditions—consistent temperature around 55°F (13°C), appropriate humidity, and protection from light and vibration—the 2017 Volcanic Hill is expected to evolve gracefully over the next 15–20 years, developing additional layers of complexity and tertiary aromas.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 80% Cabernet Sauvignon

• 15% Malbec

• 5% Petit Verdot 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5% 

Scores

• Wine Spectator: 94

• Wine Advocate: 91

• James Suckling: 96

• Antonio Galloni (Vinous): 89