Harvest
In one of the coolest growing seasons in memory, we benefited greatly in 2011 from our 35 years of experience farming Bordeaux varietals. To counteract uneven vine growth due to unusual spring weather, we did meticulous green thinning. We also gently opened up the canopy to expose the fruit, were judicious in our picking schedule, and sorted meticulously both in the vineyards and winery. The majority of our Merlot came in before the October rains, and due to our quality adjustments the remainder of our fruit fared well until it was harvested. Warm up-valley locations like Oakville, Rutherford, St, Helena and Calistoga were particularly successful, and overall the resulting wines are pure and elegant.
Winemaking
While it’s the fruit aromas that initially dazzle, as it opens up, equally enticing layers of leather, green olive, fig and wet rock are revealed. On the palate, lush cherry compote and lavender flavors make this a classic expression of Three Palms Vineyard.
Aging
Cooperage 100% French oak château-style barrels (60 gallons) Age of Barrels: 95% New, 5% Second Vintage