The 2020 vintage began with a dry winter on display by a patchwork of early rains in March that reduced crop yields. Checkerboard Vineyards were able to craft wine of great power and expression from this particularly warm vintage with wines that radiate rich and bold flavors. Although the region was impacted by two fires in the middle of the growing season, Martha and the team were able to harvest these wonderful wines prior to the issues caused by mother nature.
The 2020 Kings Row is produced from grapes grown mainly on our Aurora Vineyard which is in a small valley midway up Diamond Mountain. It sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, which full southern exposure and great light from both the east and west. It is protected in the summer by the fog that sits above the 11-acre parcel.
On the nose you will smell intense aromas of raspberry, strawberry and plum that are balanced with racy acidity. The finish is long and lush with polished tannins.