Nose
This wine exudes a delightfully complex nose
filled with rich red berry, ripe strawberry and red cherry fruit aromas that give way to
hints of subtle spearmint leaf and fennel pollen.
Palate
Opening with luscious raspberry and
cherry pie flavors, the palate is elegant and mouthfilling, with hints of black licorice,
ground cinnamon and vanilla bean. Fine tannins and hints of milk chocolate echo
throughout the long, velvety finish.
Growing Conditions
Fruit was harvested from our vineyards in a handful of the Napa
Valley’s most renowned appellations including Rutherford, Oakville and Stags Leap
District. Known for their distinct terroir, each of these appellations imparts its unique
characteristics in the fruit, contributing to Charmstone’s overall complexity.
The 2010 vintage was cooler than usual during
the growing season, but ended with a heat wave.
Harvest
The fruit for this wine
was harvested at an optimal level of ripeness in late September through mid-October.
Winemaking
Fermentation took place at a high temperature to ensure that maximum extraction was
achieved.
Aging
Racked to 35% new French oak barrels. The wine was aged
in barrel for a total of 16 months before bottling.
Appearance
Vibrant ruby in color.