Nose
Brings forward blueberry, tobacco, vanilla, marshmallow, black current, tea, roses and violet aromas.
Palate
The mid palate is full bodied with fine velvet tannins with bright balanced acidity, with flavors of rhubarb, cocoa, strawberry, cassis, plum, and the “ball of blackness flavors” that are typical of young Cabernet Sauvignon. This voluptuous full bodied smoky wine comes to life slowly in the glass and finishes with leather and chocolate.
Growing Conditions
The 2013 vintage began with a mild spring, good fruit set, followed by ideal growing conditions with mild weather through veraison that continued throughout the summer months. September was the warmest month of the vintage and pushed ripening along at a steady and even pace. The grapes accumulated good ripeness and flavor development because of the heat and resultant extended hang time. The harvest did not begin until September 22nd, and we were fortunate to have picked all but a micro-vineyard of Petit Verdot before the October rains. We had one pick after the rains, completing harvest on October 24th. The wines in general are very strong with intense color, flavor and good balance of acid and ripe tannins.
Aging
20 Months in 70% French New Oak and 30% 1 Year used French Oak (Sylvain, Nadalie, Ermitage Cooperages)
