Fortitude wines are a tribute to the small family farmers who pioneered California wine grape growing and who passed their land, and a tradition of excellence, to their children and grandchildren. Against all odds, these families have maintained a fierce independence and an unwavering passion for growing grapes of superior quality.

The Frediani Family has been farming in northern Napa Valley since 1898, with the third generation currently tending vines first planted in 1935. The 130-acre vineyard is managed by Jim Frediani and his mother, Jeanne, who keeps the books. It is planted to a panoply of wine grape varietals. In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, the family has Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignane, Valdigue (aka Napa Gamay) and a prized block of 60+ year old Charbono vines. 

The Field Blend includes Charbono (66%), Zinfandel (14%), Carignane (15%) and Petite Sirah (5%) from old vines grown in the Frediani family vineyard near Calistoga in Napa Valley. A vibrant, deeply colored wine with aromas of currants, huckleberry, fresh blackberry pie and baking spices, leading to mouth-filling juicy red and blue fruit flavors of ripe plums and berry jam. The varietals were co-fermented to ensure a harmonious blend with soft tannins balanced with bright acidity.

Production: 900 cases

Release date: July 2006