Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Our Vintage Reserve is a traditional Bordeaux-style blend crafted from only the finest vintages, when superior blocks of estate fruit mature to the highest caliber. The 2002 vintage is only our 12th bottling Vintage Reserve since 1977. It begins with inviting aromas of blackberry and plum with accents of fine tobacco. The palate unfolds with deep layers of cassis, blueberry, mocha, anise and roast coffee—a complexity of flavor that is attributable to the inclusion of five classic Bordeaux varietals. A long, smooth finish is supported by firm, polished tannins, ensuring that this wine will reward careful cellaring for at least the next 10 years.
Kevin Willenborg, Winemaker
Varietal Composition
Cabernet Franc: 30%
Merlot: 25%
Cabernet Sauvignon: 20%
Petit Verdot: 15%
Malbec: 20%
Winemaking
The grapes were hand harvested from five estate blocks over a span of nearly eight weeks. After destemming and light crushing, the must was inoculated with a slow-fermenting yeast for balanced extraction. Extended maceration was employed for a total of 28 days of skin contact to refine the tannin profile. The wine was aged for 22 months in French oak barrels.
Final Analysis
Alcohol 14.5%
TA .72
pH 3.43
Cases Produced
980 |
