Morlet Family Vineyards was founded in 2006 by Luc and Jodie Morlet and remains a family-run estate in Napa Valley. Luc Morlet comes from a fifth-generation winemaking family in Champagne. His training and experience in France, including Bordeaux and Burgundy, were followed by a move to California, where he worked with several leading estates before establishing his own winery with Jodie. Their approach combines the traditions of French winemaking with a detailed interpretation of exceptional California vineyards.Coeur de Vallée comes from the Morlets’ namesake vineyard in Oakville, at the heart of Napa Valley. The 24-acre site lies on an alluvial fan formed by material from the Mayacamas Range. Its soils contain approximately 40 to 60 percent gravel, providing excellent drainage. A seasonal creek runs through the property, while the influence of the nearby San Pablo Bay brings morning fog and cooling afternoon conditions. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc are planted across individual blocks reflecting different aspects of the site.The 2023 vintage followed several years of drought and began with substantial winter rainfall, replenishing underground water reserves. Budbreak was delayed, followed by mild and sunny conditions that allowed the vines to develop gradually through flowering and ripening. A modest fruit set resulted in loose clusters and small berries with concentrated colour and flavour. The wine was fermented with native yeasts and subsequently aged for 16 months in French oak.The 2023 Coeur de Vallée shows an intense bouquet of wild black fruits, blueberry and cassis, with layers of crushed stone, dried herbs and spice. The palate is full-bodied and dense but retains a seamless texture and fine-grained tannins. Bright freshness gives definition to the long finish. The wine combines the concentration associated with Oakville with the more restrained, structured character of the Morlet style.