LE"VI"A"THAN [LI-VAHY-UH-THUHN], NOUN
1. OFTEN CAPITALIZED: A MONSTROUS SEA CREATURE
2. SOMETHING UNUSUALLY LARGE OR FORMIDABLE

Andy Erickson, winemaker (and the man who crafts the wines for Oakville's celebrated and ultra-exclusive Screaming Eagle winery): "Blending is one of the most enjoyable and most creative parts of the winemaking process. In producing our Favia wines, which are very small production wines from highly coveted sites, we always end up with many blending components of all different varieties. Fitting these together like a puzzle creates Leviathan. It allows us to push the envelope, try new things, and have an outlet to give people something unique and, frankly, pretty damn delicious."

Leviathan is a rich, full wine with vibrant texture. Its complex flavors are derived from a unique blend which highlights the best of California -- carefully fine-tuned each vintage to create a bold, rich, enticing wine. Though this uniquely blended wine is able to be cellared, it is intended to be consumed in its youth, showcasing its bright, fruit-driven character.

The imagery that best captures this wine is Leviathan -- a monstrous sea creature, powerful and mysterious.

Wine Tasting Notes
A true Leviathan, the 2009 vintage of the wily beast has morphed into its own being. Aromas of espresso, cracked peppercorn and shiso leaves exude from the glass. Succulent red currants, cassis and dark cherries lure one in, and delivers a smooth, decadent finish with hints of raw cacao, cigar box, pavement and rustic bramble pie. This new creation has found true varietal balance, encompassing all of our favorite oenological aspects: ruby-cyan hues, mouthwatering acidity, ample but rounded tannins, and a truly insatiable nature. A sizeable wine, the newest incarnation of Leviathan is a hedonistic delight now, and should provide added excitement over the next several years - but why wait? 28% Syrah, 26% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 21%Cab Franc