2016 Growing Season Notes:
Growing season was literally perfect in 2016. Rock steady temperatures all summer long and no interruptions during high bloom lead to greater yields than in 2015. Consistent daily temperature fluctuations created the ideal amount of dew on the vines each morning and there was no need for irrigation. Fruit gradually matured to optimum ripeness right up to harvest. The first rainstorm to hit didn’t occur until after harvest was complete which was a suitable end to a flawless season.
Winery Tasting Notes:
2016 is our most bold tannic vintage to date. In order to create optimum texture, the wine needed additional aging time in barrel. 2016 was aged in new French Oak for 30 months. Wine color is bright ruby/purple and intense. We feel this wine still needs several years to age in the bottle. However, if you plan on enjoying it soon, please decant for 1-2 hours.
On the nose: Cassis, blueberry, and over-ripe cherry with hints of chocolate, Connolly leather & cigar box. On the palate the texture and balance of this vintage really shines through. Supple, chewy, velvety & bold all at the same time. Acidity is bright and not over-powering. A sweet inner-core of red and black fruit explode on the mid-palate. Multi-layered and elegant. Suggestions of truffle, loam & liquorice. Finish is pure & lengthy. Gradually drifting off with a blueberry and dark chocolate note.
