2017 Cabernet Sauvignon

Blend Composition | 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Harvest Date | September 28 - October6
Finished pH | 3.82
Finished TA | 5.8 g/L
Alcohol by volume | 14.5%
Production | 298 cases

VINTAGE
We had a wet start to 2017, so welcome after 5 years of drought. The bulk of the rain fell in January and February but rains continued into April, ensuring that the vines would have ample water throughout the growing season. The harvest started more or less on time with average to slightly low yields. What started in water ended in fire.  Fortunately we had harvested most of our fruit before the October fires. We did not use any fruit harvested after the fires.

WINEMAKING
Our Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of clones 6, 30 and 337, which bring depth to the finished wine. In the winery we handle the fruit gently, destemming without crushing the berries. We adjust our cap management techniques—punchdowns and pumpovers—to get the desired structure and color without overextraction.

TASTING NOTES
A striking dark garnet color, this wine displays beautiful aromas to match.  Black cherry, blackberry, and blackcurrant aromas are complemented by hints of mocha and dark chocolate.  On the palate, the wine is silky in texture, but it has a delightfully surprising tannic grip.  Notes of espresso and dark chocolate-covered cherries stand out against a background of lush fruit flavors.  The lingering, complex finish promise a great future for this wine.

This Cabernet Sauvignon is irresistible now but will reward cellaring for a decade or more.

PAIRINGS
This versatile wine will pair beautifully with rigatoni with salsiccia and ricotta, grilled baby back ribs, a slab of thick-cut bacon, or your favorite pasta in Bolognese sauce.

- Matt Reid, Winemaker