Nose
From its dense, saturated ruby hue to its earthy, cigar box nose, this
cabernet sauvignon commands attention and suggests a cellar-worthy
wine.
Palate
More than evident on the palate right now is the great intensity,
depth and structure it possesses. Pure, focused flavors of black
cherry, currant and tobacco coat the mouth, while notes of forest
floor and pencil shavings add further dimension and nuance. A
lingering finish offers balanced acidity and firm, chewy tannins.
Growing Conditions
Extended cool weather and rains in spring
resulted in late bud break in Napa Valley. A
long, temperate growing season followed
however, allowing for slow, full and even
ripening of the fruit and development of
tannins. Harvest of cabernet sauvignon
began later than usual, running from
October 11 through November 2.
Harvest
Hand-harvested grapes.
Bottling
Unblended, unfined and unfiltered; Bottled July 2007.
Winemaking
♦ Fermented in small, closed-top stainless steel fermentors
with indigenous yeasts
♦ 5 day cold soak, 34 days total maceration
♦ Spontaneous malolactic fermentation in barrels
Aging
Aged 19 months in French oak barrels; 95% new.