The Animo Vineyard is planted to 15 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon vines in a relatively uniform rocky volcanic soil infused with red streaks of iron. The vines climb from an elevation of 1,270 to 1,350 feet on the slope of Atlas Peak, overlooking Napa Valley. The grapes enjoy a long growing season at this elevation, and harvest generally extends well into October.
Variations in elevation and sun exposure require numerous picking passes at harvest time. The attention paid to each vine of the Cabernet and Petit Verdot planted here is reflected in the quality of the finished wine. Animo Vineyard provides Michael Mondavi Family wines with an expression of the spirit of Atlas Peak.