Friends, the Perrets, offered her some Sauvignon Blanc grapes grown at their Rutherford vineyard. Michelle could not pass up the fantastic opportunity to design and create Kazumi Wines. In 2016, Michelle decided to try her hand in making a red wine and started producing a single vineyard, Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon. To help her achieve her vision, Michelle brought on renowned winemaker Kale Anderson. Kale has worked for top properties in California including Colgin Cellars, Terra Valentine Winery, Cliff Lede Vineyards, and Pahlmeyer. In 2022, Kazumi Wines debuted a Napa Valley Koshu, a Japanese variety, which is the first of its kind to be made in the United States.
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the Skellenger Vineyard in Oakville. This Skellenger Vineyard was planted in 2012 and is farmed by the Renteria family, who have been farming in Napa since 1962. The grapes are hand harvested and whole cluster fermented in oak puncheon. The whole cluster fermentation adds complexity to the aromas, flavors, and structure. After fermentation is complete the must is pressed off into a combination of new and used French oak barrique. After 18 months of ageing the wine is bottled unfiltered. This Cabernet Sauvignon speaks to the power of Napa, but has a great balance of savor and acidity that makes it more than fruit and tannin. It is a true food wine that keeps you coming back for another sip.
