2016 Disciples

The Crane Assembly is a new project headed by Dave Phinney of Orin Swift fame. Phinney and his three partners recently purchased a small eight acre vineyard in the heart of St. Helena that was once part of Dr. George Belden Crane's estate. Dr. Crane was one of the early settlers of St. Helena and played an integral role in the early history of Napa Valley. About half of the vineyard plantings date back to Crane's era, which is remarkable. The Crane Assembly is one of the most intriguing projects I have come across in some time. It is no secret that vineyards planted with grape varieties other than Cabernet Sauvignon are likely to be economically unviable. It's hard to say exactly how things will shape up here, but readers should make an effort to taste these wines while they can.