From Lisa Chu’s organically farmed Saffron Vineyard high on Mt. Veeder, above the fog line around 1,500 feet, comes this mountain-grown red from Ashes & Diamonds. Despite what you might expect from a Mt. Veeder cuvee, this is a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc rather than Cabernet Sauvignon, planted in fractured shale and marine sediment soils. Elevation and dry farming give the wine firm structure and concentrated dark fruit. Native fermentation and a light cellar hand let the site speak. It’s mountain Napa with grip, freshness, and a real sense of place.