Nose
This wine gives expressive aromas of cassis, cigar box, mocha and anise.
Palate
On the palate this wine displays a generous texture, with fine grain tannins that add extra dimension to the wines' length. Flavors abound, of ripe plums and blackberries followed b secondary more subtle elements such as thyme, anise and briar. A complex yet balance wine with the ability to age gracefully over the next 10-15 years.
Growing Conditions
2012 was a return to form for the Napa Valley, a near perfect growing season. Generous rainfall in March and even temperatures in April and May were ideal for bud break and bloom. Followed by a warm summer and fall meant we could achieve near perfect ripeness. With no pressure to pick, we were able to let the grapes hang on the vine to deliver the very best flavors. Yield was slightly above normal, and the fruit exhibited bright aromatics and acid balance. Thick skins and very little disease pressure gave us clean grapes that were intensely flavored and required very little sorting in the winery.
Bottling
May 15th, 2014
Aging
100% French oak, 40% new. 19 months.
Appearance
Dark purple in the glass.
