Description
Winemakers Notes
The 2007 growing season in Napa Valley began dry and warm, with early budding, bloom and set. Low spring precipitation, followed by a relatively cool summer, allowed good hangtime and associated flavor devel- opment. While cluster counts were normal, the dry season led to smaller berries and lower yields. Overall, the vintage is noted for great acid levels and outstanding quality.
Vineyards
Well-established hillside vineyards are the foundation of this wine, giving the finished blend its intense inner core of fruit. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were sourced from hillsides of Oakville, Rutherford and Spring Mountain District. Merlot was sourced from the Nichelini Vineyard in Chiles Valley, and the Syrah was drawn from Truchard Vineyards in northern Carneros.
Vinification
The grapes were hand picked at optimum ripeness. Following destemming, the grapes were stainless steel- fermented and received extended skin contact before being transferred to barrels. The wine was aged in small French oak barrels for 24 months (80% new barrels) where the wine completed malolactic fermentation. The wine was racked prior to bottling.
Tasting Notes
With its blue hues and pronounced blueberry aromas, this distinct blend (65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Syrah, 10% Merlot) is a study in blue. Bordeaux varieties provide the framework, while Syrah transports the blend to a realm all its own. It’s simply, Kind of Blue.
Philip Zorn, Winemaker
CRITICAL ACCLAIM
93 points Wine Enthusiast
This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot stands up well against far more expensive Napa Valley cult Cabs. It’s softly tannic, rich and decadently delicious in blackberry and cherry pie filling, licorice, chocolate, baking spice and sandalwood flavors. Gorgeous, dry and generous…
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