Nickel & Nickel was begun in Oakville in 1997 by the owners of Far Niente (the similarity of their label is hard to miss). In contrast to Far Niente, Nickel & Nickel is dedicated to producing single-varietal wines from distinct individual vineyards. Each vineyard is farmed and vinified to best illustrate its unique site. In turn, some vineyards are not far apart in distance, but the wines are very different in character. The Branding Iron Vineyard was planted in 1998 in well-drained clay loam soils at the base of the Mayacamas Mountains. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for 18 months in 48% new French oak before bottling. From the winery: "The 2010 Branding Iron has a wonderful combination of blackberry and raspberry fruits, blended with earthy and floral characters. Nicely balanced and richly textured, this wine offers ripe fruit flavors and amazingly fine tannins. This depth of flavor is carried by the wine's classic structure into a long, lasting finish. Named for the branding iron owned by the proprietor, the 8.5 acre vineyard lies in western Oakville, close to the base of the Mayacamas Mountains."