Nose
On the nose, herbaceous notes add an earthiness that is balanced by fresh currents and red fruit flavors.
Palate
Those aromas continue onto the palate and are elevated with flavors of fresh leather and clove. The finish is meaty with pleasing tannins that linger for an extended period.
Growing Conditions
The 2020 early growing season was near normal. Rainfall occurred mainly in early winter and early spring and seasonal totals were just below average. Vine growth and berry development was typical through spring. Summer brought unusual heatwaves which slowed berry development, keeping them small with a desirable skin to juice ratio. October was warm and dry, aiding in fruit maturity.
Harvest
Harvest was condensed as most Paso Robles Cabernet ripened at the same time with ideal color and flavors.
Bottling
January 2022
Winemaking
Clone 369 (France) Mourvèdre Grapes were hand-picked and fermented in five-ton, open-top tanks. After daily pump-overs (for color and tannin extraction) for 10 days, the tanks were tasted and analyzed for their tannin and structure to determine the length of extended maceration.
Aging
The wines were held on their skins for an additional 20 days before they were barreled down into 100% once used French oak barrels where they aged for 10 months. After creation of the blend in summer 2021, the wine aged for an additional six months in 100% once used French Oak before being racked just prior to bottling.
Food Pairing
Beef Cordon Bleu
