Nose
Rich depth of color and aromas of spices and concentrated candied fruit layer with raspberry, cherry, cassis and currant. Finely integrated oak aromas marry and intertwine the fruit to add complexity and depth.
Palate
The wine is full and rich on the attack with dense coated tannins. Darker flavors of cocoa and espresso emerge to add even greater variety to the experience. As the wine opens, more and more intriguing elements unfold like hints of anise, toasted almonds, raspberry jam and a mineral earthiness. The mid-palate is weighty and chewy. The finish is long and complex.
Growing Conditions
The 2005 vintage gave us graceful wines of stature and quality. In many ways, it bears a marked resemblance to the bountiful 1997 vintage. The growing season began with plentiful springtime rainfall and cool temperatures that slowed veraison. Summer temperatures were very warm with a few heat spikes in July, followed by moderate weather through November, allowing for slow and even ripening. Harvest began on September 20, more than a month later than 2004, and concluded with a final day of picking on November 8.
Bottling
August 2007
Aging
22 months in French Oak
Appearance
Rich depth of color
