Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2005
Vintage
With the exception of March, 2005 got off to a wet start with record rainfall well into spring. A relatively late bloom and set was followed by a mild summer with few heat spikes, allowing slow, even ripening of a larger than average crop. Ideal weather persisted through the extended harvest, allowing for excellent sugar development, balanced acids, and fully developed flavors.
Vineyards
Well-established hillside vineyards are the foundation of this wine, giving the finished blend its intense inner core of fruit. The complexity and balance of the 2005 vintage was achieved through diverse sourcing; while a majority of grapes were sourced from Oakville and Rutherford, vineyards from Coombsville to Diamond Mountain contributed to the final blend.
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 18 months (80% new barrels) where the wine completed malolactic fermentation. The wine was racked prior to bottling.
Tasting Notes
Aromas of cedary oak, currants, black cherries and ripe plums are rich and concentrated on the palate. The firm tannins underlying the wine’s core provide balance, leading to a long, lingering finish.
Press & Acclaim
Very Highly Recommended
"Medium to medium-dark ruby; attractive, cedary, plumy, cassis and black cherry fruit aroma with a hint of cocoa; full body; forward, rich, textured, layered, slightly herbaceous, dark currant and ripe berry flavors with notes of green olive and sweet oak; velvety mouthfeel; medium-full to full tannin; lingering aftertaste. Good Value. Very highly recommended."
- California Grapevine, December 2008 - January 2009 Download PDF
Technical Data:
• Varietal Composition: 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 4% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Alcohol: 14.9%
• TA: 0.72 g/100ml
• pH: 3.62
• Oak Aging: 18 months
• Oak Cooperage French oak, 80% new\
• Production: 8,073 cases
• Bottling Date: July 19-21,23, 2007
