This Cabernet Sauvignon is layered and complex, and follows in the tradition we established with our first vintage. From the deep, dark color to the intense aromas of black cherry and cassis, to the mouthwatering flavors of dark berries and crème de cassis, each layer unfolds slowly and deliberately. A small addition of Merlot softens the mouthfeel, while even smaller amounts of Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc add spice and complexity to the blend. Reflecting our non-interventionist philosophy, this wine is neither fined nor filtered; aging in French and American oak barrels creates subtle nuances of oak and vanilla that serve as a backdrop for the wine’s forward fruit flavors.

Review

This Cabernet Sauvignon is layered and complex, andfollows in the tradition we established with our first vintage. From the deep, dark color to the intense aromas of black cherry and cassis, to the mouthwatering flavors of dark berries and crème de cassis, each layer unfolds slowly and deliberately. A small addition of Merlot softens the mouthfeel, while even smaller amounts of Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc add spice and complexity to the blend. Reflecting our non-interventionist philosophy, this wine is neither fined nor filtered; aging in French and American oak barrels creates subtle nuances of oak and vanilla that serve as a backdrop for the wine’s forward fruit flavors.

Wine maker notes

We find that each growing season is unique, and 1999 was certainly no exception. The season kicked into gear with a long, cold winter, followed by a moderate spring. Bud break came in late March and early April, with bloom complete by mid-June. A cool, dry summer resulted in a rather late harvest, giving the vines extra "hang time" and allowing the grapes to reach optimum ripeness. The end results were wines with deep color and an excellent balance of fruit and tannins. Our 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma County is such a wine

Technical notes

Region/Origin: Sonoma County Residual Sugar: Dry Total Acid: .53 g per 100 ml Alcohol: 14.1% Final pH: 3.6 Blend: 83 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 2% Malbec, 1% Petit Verdot