Napa Valley

What began as an experiment, has since become one of Carina Cellars’ most beloved blends: the Iconoclast.

Winemaker Joey Tensley knew he wanted to create a blend that would take the traditional French notions of a Rhône blend, and completely defy them. So he created the Iconoclast, which literally means to defy conventions and break free from the mold. Tensley aimed to combine the best grapes from two of California’s top wine-producing regions: Napa Valley and Santa Ynez Valley. Through the grapevine he discovered that Robert Craig vineyard in Napa Valley’s Howell Mountain region wanted to purchase some Colson Canyon Syrah, and since he had immediate access to this fruit he decided to strike a deal: he would sell some of his Colson Canyon Syrah to Robert Craig, in exchange for some of his Cabernet Sauvignon fruit. The deal was made, and thus the Iconoclast blend became 67% Napa Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Santa Barbara Syrah. With the small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon leftover from creating the Iconoclast, Tensley decided to make 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, and so the tradition continues each year.

Robert Craig Located in the Howell Mountain AVA in northeastern Napa Valley, this 9.5 acre Robert Craig estate vineyard is located at nearly 2,300 feet on the summit. The undernourished vines struggle in the bright red, volcanic soils, and on average yield only 1.5 tons per acre, creating fruit that is incredibly dark with a superb tannin structure. At 1,400-2,200 feet above sea level, this vineyard avoids the fog that often blankets the valley floor below, yet still receives the cool Pacific breezes. All of these factors lead to perfect growing conditions for Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon.
Farmhouse In 2006 Carina Cellars decided it was time to try a different vineyard for the Cabernet Sauvignon in our Iconoclast blend. Farmhouse Vineyard.