After hand harvesting, each lot is cold soaked for two to three days. More than 90% of the blend is fermented in small 10-ton fermenters to generate added thermal energy for enhanced extraction, with attentive phenolic monitoring to dial in an ideal mouthfeel. After fermentation, only the free-run juice is selected. Each lot is aged separately for 23 months in premium French oak barrels, inclusive of 75% new oak. The final blend is assembled from only those barrels that exhibited exemplary complexity, structure, and aging potential. Cabernet Sauvignon is predominant with broad, polished layers and classic varietal expression. Cabernet Franc enlivens the aromatic profile with suggestions of violets and savory spice, while Petit Verdot contributes color, structure and aromatic nuances of cedar and pencil shavings. Merlot adds lift and silkiness to the palate, and Malbec completes the experience with undertones of juicy red fruit.

The proliferation of sea fossils at Oyster Ridge is the most vivid example of the complex geology found at Margarita Vineyard. This namesake Oyster Ridge blend comes from specific spots that have proven to produce remarkable fruit. All vineyard subsections designated for Oyster Ridge are isolated at the start of the growing season, and they are fastidiously tended to maximize the fruit’s potential and meet the standards of the Oyster Ridge program. The primary grapes for this wine are driven by Cabernet Sauvignon from blocks 31, 49, 51, 52 and 53. Block 31 unfolds along a shale-riddled slope that delivers deep, concentrated varietal flavors, while Block 49 is notable for its elegant red-blue fruit character. Blocks 51, 52 and 53 comprise a newer Cabernet Sauvignon planting that produces an abundance of blue fruit flavors with purity and structure. Similarly specific selection is applied to the other varieties that round out this classic Bordeaux-style blend.