Growing Conditions
The 2018 vintage delivered ideal growing conditions that were reminiscent of
the exceptional 2012 and 2016 vintages. Perfectly timed spring rains saturated
the soils, and were followed by moderate weather, with almost no days of
heat above 100° F throughout summer. Because the phenomenal growing
conditions yielded a larger-than-average crop, we did as many as three to four
thinning passes between June and August, aggressively dropping fruit to finetune
the crop load. The temperate conditions continued late into the season,
providing abundant hangtime, and ensuring ideal flavor development and the
retention of excellent natural acidity. As a result, our 2018 wines offer beautiful
color, concentration and weight, with lovely varietal purity.