Nose
Pine, mint, smoke and licorice wrap around the intense,
blue/blackish fruit.
Palate
The 2013 Eloge is quite a bit darker, fleshier and more
explosive than the 2012, but is also holding back quite a bit in reserve.
Blackberry jam, savory herbs and licorice are some of the notes that
inform the powerful finish, where beams of acidity add brightness.
Growing Conditions
2013 was nearly an ideal season, with moderate
temperatures and no rain or heat extremes. The growing season
started early and remained about two weeks ahead of most previous
years all summer. Water for irrigation was scarce after a dry spring,
but that triggered few problems and two small rainstorms in
September caused few headaches.
