Nose
This wine boasts a bountiful nose of baked black plum, dark currant and blackberry pie,
supported by whispers of espresso bean, dried violets and tar.
Palate
Ripe Bing cherry and boysenberry lead on the palate,
while deep flavors of cinnamon toast, molasses and maple follow. Long and lingering, the mineral finish swirls with
robust yet creamy tannins and subtle touches of Earl Grey tea and vanilla bean.
Growing Conditions
The 2008 vintage was extremely variable, opening with an intense frost that resulted in limited fruit set,
then proceeding to be one of the driest seasons on record which reduced berry weight further. A long, cool summer
allowed flavors to develop fully before a heat wave encouraged prompt picking.
Harvest
The small, flavorful clusters were nightharvested
mid September through October and underwent our rigorous sorting process prior to being destemmed into tank.
Aging
The wine aged for 17 months in 40% new French oak barrels before bottling in May 2010.
Appearance
Bold and garnet-black in color.
Food Pairing
A wine as complex and beautiful as this would be best showcased alongside a hearty yet simple preparation. Grilled
marinated hangar steak with roasted shallots or roast lamb shoulder with Provencal vegetables would be excellent
choices to partner with this wine, as would a dry, mature cheese like Asiago d’Avello.