Aurora Vineyard rests on a knoll in a small valley midway up our mountain at 1,200 feet in elevation. Suggestive of its storied past, the soils are riddled with basalt rock and volcanic ash.2014 Checkerboard Aurora Vineyard offers beautiful aromas of wild brambleberry, rich caramel and fresh, dark cherries macerated in Asian spices. On the palate, this elegant wine is seamlessly interwoven with cassis, cured meat, and crushed, dried herbs. Structured, yet approachable tannins provide a full mid-palate and the underpinning for a lengthy and lovely finish. In its youth, the 2014 vintage benefits from decanting prior to service.| Checkerboard Vineyards, Winemaker Martha McClellanWhispers of comparison to Harlan and Abreu are stirred anytime the Aurora Vineyard by Checkerboard is in the glass. Barrel fermentation, whole clusters, and 100% New French oak show a method and style that steps in time with both of these Napa cult Cabernets. | Falling Bright