2021 Ceritas “Colima” Cabernet Sauvignon, West Sonoma Coast, California
Regular price $44.00
Unit price per
100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Ceritas was founded in 2005 by John Raytek and Phoebe Bass, who have become some of California’s most respected voices in site-driven, minimal-intervention winemaking. While the winery first gained acclaim for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Sonoma Coast and Santa Cruz Mountains, Ceritas has quietly emerged as one of the most exciting producers of Cabernet Sauvignon in California. Their philosophy is simple: spend more time listening to the vineyard than manipulating the wine. Through organic and biodynamic farming practices, native fermentations, and restrained cellar work, Raytek seeks to reveal each site’s natural character rather than impose a winemaking signature.
“Colima” serves as the introduction to the Ceritas Cabernet program, blending fruit from several exceptional mountain vineyard sites across Napa Valley and the Santa Cruz Mountains. Depending on the vintage, the wine may include fruit from renowned sites such as Peter Martin Ray, Black Ridge, Paratus, and other high-elevation vineyards planted in shale, sandstone, and volcanic soils. These mountain sites experience cool evenings, abundant sunshine, and naturally low yields, producing Cabernet Sauvignon with intensity, structure, and remarkable freshness.
Unlike many California Cabernets that emphasize ripeness and power, Colima focuses on precision, energy, and transparency. Fermentation occurs with native yeasts, extraction is gentle, and aging is carefully managed to preserve the purity of the fruit. The result is a Cabernet that feels more akin to a fine mountain wine than a blockbuster Napa bottling—complex, age-worthy, and deeply expressive of place. It beautifully captures Ceritas' belief that great wine is uncovered, not manufactured.
This Cab is showing red currant, blackberry, and black cherry are layered with graphite, cedar, crushed herbs, and subtle floral notes. The palate is structured yet remarkably elegant, with fine-grained tannins, vibrant acidity, and a long, mineral-driven finish. A natural match for grilled ribeye, roasted lamb, or dry-aged steaks. Also excellent with wild mushrooms, rosemary-roasted potatoes, or aged cheeses like Comté and Manchego.