Nose
Very complex bouquet of damson plums, violets, blueberry, blackberry, garrigue, black olive and smoldering incense.
Palate
This is a wine of exquisite balance and seductive texture. The beautifully ripe tannins and lively acidity provide the framework for successful aging. The aromatic complexity follows through nicely on the palate: blackberry, raspberry, bacon fat, sage, white pepper, allspice, dark chocolate, and stony minerality. The protracted finish echoes violet-like floral tones with hints of blueberry, espresso and truffles.
Growing Conditions
Source vineyard: SJR Vineyard.
Bottling
Unfined and unfiltered.
Winemaking
Cold soak 136 hours. Punchdowns 2-3 times/day during fermentation.
Aging
Aged sur lie for 14 months in French Oak; Oak profile is 60% new French oak (Troncais) and 40% neutral French oak. Racked once prior to bottling.