Nose
This powerful wine offers youthful aromas of lush black plum, cherry and berry fruit enriched with hints of toasted pecans
and sweet vanilla.
Palate
The entry on the palate is intense, with a solid core of dark fruit, mouthwatering acidity and a velvety
texture that balances the muscular tannins. The finish slowly draws to a close with notes of milk chocolate, coffee and
caramel lingering to the last. Decant for up to an hour before serving to allow its complex flavors full expression.
Growing Conditions
The 2007 vintage had a lot of ups and downs, with an early, cool start and several heat waves throughout the growing
season.
Harvest
The result was smaller bunches of small, intensely flavored berries harvested between early to mid-October.
Bottling
Bottled in April 2009.
Winemaking
This
wine was sorted with an intensive process of cluster selection then berry selection before going into tank. Extended
maceration of 20 to 25 days on the skins created the rich mouthfeel.
Aging
The wines were transferred to 75% new and 25% one
-year old French oak barrels where they aged for 14 months.
Food Pairing
Though framed with brawny tannins, the exuberant fruit makes this wine accessible in its youth. Try it now with dryrubbed
meats, lush sauces and grilled dishes which will complement the fruit while taming the tannins. As age softens
the structure, pair it with simple, subtle dishes like prime rib, mushroom-stuffed chicken breasts and Italian cheeses.