Region : France
Type : Red Wine
Grape : 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec
ABV : 14,9%
Rating JD = 97, WE = 91, JS = 90
Tasting Notes: A richly aromatic wine with beautiful notes of cassis, toasted walnuts, fresh
rosemary and a hint of earthiness. On the palate, silky tannins create an elegant, textured
mouthfeel with layers of blackberry, ripe cherry, dark chocolate and a hint of oak spice that
gain focus across a vibrant finish.
Vintage: Like the last several growing seasons, 2016 was another hot year that required extra
care in the vineyards. Building on the success of our canopy management program over the
last few vintages, we worked with growers throughout the season to encourage growth of the
canes and outside foliage to protect against the sun while opening up the fruit zone for even
maturation. Warm temperatures in the fall hastened ripening, but the Columbia Valley’s cool
autumn nights protected the grapes’ acidity, yielding bright, vibrant wines that will drink well
in their youth but also promise to bring enjoyment to those who cellar.
Winemaking: A variety of fermentation methods were used to enhance complexity and
richness in this classic Bordeaux blend. Hand-harvested Cabernet was fermented in 400L
French oak barrels that were gently rolled throughout fermentation to integrate the oak with
refined, dark fruit flavors and give the wine its silky mouthfeel. All other varieties were
fermented in traditional stainless steel tanks, with select lots enjoying longer skin contact to
enhance the wine’s dark color and mid-palate. The finished wine was aged 22 months in
French oak barrels (75% new) before bottling, unfiltered and unfined.
Vineyards: Red Mountain is prized for its Cabernet Sauvignon and this wine displays all the
structure and textured richness that has come to characterize the grapes from this acclaimed
growing region. Dionysus Vineyard’s Petit Verdot adds layers of complex aromas and
flavors. The remainder of the blend is from select Wahluke Slope vineyards. The Merlot
brings juicy, richness to the finished wine; Cabernet Franc adds a hint of earthiness; and
Malbec contributes appealing spice and beautiful color.
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