2019 Whipper-In

Our second vintage of our first in the Defiant Blend Series and tribute to Proprietor and Dad, Bill Faulkner, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc keeps it namesake as it is evokes characteristics of all who are defiant: bold, intelligent, structured, fierce and unique. The name Whipper-In comes from the Faulkner Family's love and history with horses. The painting pictured on the bottle label is Bill as a young man, and former president of the West Hills Hunt Club from a photo news clipping in the LA times. This wine encompasses the best of the vineyard with notes of blackberry, herb de Provence, mint, lilac, cherries, and plums.  Critic Notes The 2019 Whipper In opens with a burst of crushed dried violets and lavendar, giving way to sugar-dusted blackberry. This washes acorss the palate, cool-toned and savory in style, with crisp black fruits and brisk acidity that maintains freshness. Slightly tannic and full of tension, the 2019 finishes with decent length yet tight. - Eric Guido, Vinous If you can keep it on the shelf... Recommended to drink 2025 - 2030