Diamond Creek Vineyards is one of Napa Valley’s historic estates and a pioneer of single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Founded by Al and Boots Brounstein in 1968 on Diamond Mountain, the estate was divided into tiny individual vineyards according to their contrasting soils and microclimates, an unusually terroir focused approach for Napa at the time. The wines, particularly the great bottles of the 1970s and 1980s, earned a formidable reputation for their concentration, structure and extraordinary longevity. In 2020, Diamond Creek was acquired by the Rouzaud family, owners of Champagne Louis Roederer, who have continued the estate’s focus on individual vineyard expression.

Volcanic Hill is the largest of Diamond Creek’s principal vineyards, covering around 8 acres on a south facing hillside and named for its distinctive pale volcanic soils. Traditionally the most powerful and long lived of the estate’s Cabernets, it combines intense cassis, blackberry and dark fruit with graphite, earth, cedar and spice, underpinned by substantial tannins and a pronounced mineral character.  A natural match for roast or grilled beef, rib of beef, venison and other richly flavoured red meats, particularly dishes with earthy mushrooms or a deeply reduced sauce.

"Diamond Creek's 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Volcanic Hill is a bit more open than the Red Rock Terrace. The blue and black-hued fruit is deep, rich and enveloping, while firm, focused tannins provide the backdrop. The Volcanic Hill has power to burn. With time in the glass, hints of smoke, crushed rocks and tar come to life, adding even more intensity and grip. The Volcanic Hill is always likely to be bombastic, but it is also compelling. Drink 2023-2048"  Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com