Nose
Aromas of lush, bright black cherry, blackberry and cassis draw you in.
Palate
Round, rich, seamless tannins provide a robust backbone and supple mid-palate. Notes of cedar, vanilla and a hint of mocha linger on the finish.
Growing Conditions
Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are blended with Merlot for softness, Cabernet Franc for tannins, and Petit Verdot to enhance the mouthfeel. Sonoma County mountain and hillside vineyards add black cherry flavours and superb wine structure. Mendocino County mountain vineyards impart wild blackberry, cassis and mocha flavours. The coolness of the 2012 vintage enhances the elegance.
Winemaking
Artisan winemaking techniques, such as cold soaking and extended maceration were used to enhance and simultaneously soften the tannins, deepen the color and intensify the flavours.
Aging
Aged 8 months in French (52%) and American (32%) oak barrels for a wine that is rich and round.