Palate
This wine shows the earthiness of Cabernet Franc and the polish of Cabernet Sauvignon. This fruit forward wine with great intensity has aromas and flavors rich dark cherry, deep cassis, tobacco and finishing with dark chocolate. The soft oak flavors and tannins are well integrated. Drinkable upon release. Age worthy for another decade or more.
Growing Conditions
Cabernet Sauvignon is from the family’s organically grown O’Connell Family Estate Vineyard. The fruit from this block is prized for its ability to harmonize the flavor components of a wine into a seamless integrated tasting experience- smooth and elegant in the mouth. The Cabernet Franc comes from Oakville, where warm daytime temperatures ripen brings the fruit to express the rich earthiness of the varietal.
The 2008 vintage had a dramatic growing season, with frost damaging vineyard buds and heat spikes during bloom in May and in August. It delivered a very small crop due to these extremes but with an exceptional quality. The vintage produced wines that are very rich and full-bodied and well-balanced, with plenty of tannins for aging.
Aging
24 months in new French Oak of medium toast
Food Pairing
If you like Cabernet and Chocolate- this is your wine! Great with all cuts of beef- grilled or roasted, lamb and game meats such as venison and elk.
