Introducing The Mask

While some wines are crafted to be savored and cellared, others embody a more easy-going charm. Reflecting our desire to create a red wine filled with rich, fruit character at an approachable price, we are pleased to unveil The Mask—a second label wine using great Napa Valley grapes.

The 2005 growing season was a winemaker’s dream—delivering big crops of amazing fruit. In fact, in anticipation of the "bumper" 2005 yields, we dropped large amounts of grapes to create added-depth and concentration in our Cabernet Sauvignon. Even so, we found ourselves with more fruit than we needed to craft the small-lot, 500-case bottling of our Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon—a wonderful dilemma to have. Inspired by this abundance of top fruit, we took a playful detour in our winemaking journey, to create a vibrant red that’s just plain fun to drink.

Blending a bit of whimsy and adventure, The Mask brings together a selection of our 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, with some tasty up-valley Zinfandel, and a touch of Syrah. Wrapped around a Cabernet core, the Zinfandel adds sweet fruit notes, while the Syrah brings a hint of Rhône-inspired structure and richness. The fateful result is a wine that combines robust, ripe fruit flavors with a delightful, plush texture.

Though capable of aging for several years, this pleasing red has been crafted to shine in its youth. We invite you to enjoy The Mask, with the confidence of knowing that behind The Mask is Destino Wines. Destino Wines' 2005 The Mask received a Wine Spectator score of 87.

Winemaker Notes | Press | Purchase

Winemaker Notes [ 394.5 KB ]