Tasting Notes

A vintage of a decade. The 2016 exudes elegance, refinement and grace. Delicate perfume notes of blackberries and black cherries coalesce with a backdrop of subtle oak, tobacco and spice. A velvet richness of concentrated flavors of black fruits and cassis, interlaced with fine, ripe tannins into seamlessly integrated French oak. A long sensual forthright finish.

Vintage

2016 began with an early spring and a very early bloom, leading to a very early harvest; our first fruit arrived October 11. During maturation, summer temperatures were warm and steady, with fewer heat spikes than 2015. Three weeks of cool weather in August and September relaxed the pace of harvest, allowing for methodical picking decisions and perfectly developed fruit. Yields were relatively average with less clusters per vine – down from 2014 and up from 2015. A warm season equating to even fruit set and ripening. Harvest arrived in perfect condition. Early morning hand harvesting of each varietal by lot over five days. Gentle cold soak for seven days. Indigenous yeast fermentations over 12-days on average both stainless and concrete. Aging sur lies with bi-monthly bâtonnage coats the tannins and integrates the wood. Six-years in bottle for integration of tannins and phenolics into a luxurious harmonious wine.