Nose

Aromas of blueberry, red cherry and raspberry are
accented by darker notes of coffee bean, spicy bramble and hints of caramel.

Palate

The palate is equally inviting, opening with
fresh, sweet dark berry and baked cherry fruit before the firm tannins take hold and carry the long finish through deeper
tones of black tea, briar and toasty oak. Decant for 30 minutes to allow this youthful wine to open up to its best flavors.

Growing Conditions

Inaugural vintage.

The 2006 vintage started out slow, with rain and cool spring temperatures making for a late budbreak, but a warm summer
and moderate fall allowed the grapes to catch up quickly.

Harvest

Harvest began in October, a bit on the late side, but the wait was
worth it for the intense flavors that resulted.

Bottling

Bottled in June 2008.

Winemaking

This wine was sorted with an intensive process of cluster selection then berry
selection before crushing. Extended maceration of 31 to 36 days on the skins created the rich mouthfeel.

Aging

The wines were
transferred to new and one-year old French oak barrels where they aged for 14 months.

Appearance

A dense ruby hue hints at the intensity of this young, bright wine.

Food Pairing

Though powerful, this wine is classically balanced and easy to pair with food. It will brighten braised and rich dishes
like osso bucco or buttery roasted chicken but has the tannin to pair beautifully with grilled meats and aged cheeses. As
it ages, try it with more delicate dishes like mushroom risotto or high-grade tuna.