Palate
Complexity was my goal for this vintage. I blended Cabernets from multiple blocks of four different vineyards spread throughout the AVA to create layers of chocolaty cherry
and boysenberry fruit with intricate spices that evolve in your glass, while also staying true to the expansive yet smooth Horse Heaven Hills palate.
Growing Conditions
The 2016 vintage experienced the best of both worlds with a hot spring and early summer, but also a cool fall season.
Cooler temperatures in August and September, slowed down ripening and resulted in longer hang time for the grapes and the longest harvest on record in Washington State (August 15- November 15).
Overall, 2016 saw very favorable growing conditions, producing wines with ripeness and elegance.
Sourced from Cabernet Sauvignon fruit from vineyards in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA.
Our estate vineyards of Canoe Ridge Estate and Horse Heaven Vineyard contributed to the blend.
Planted in 1991, the site’s proximity to the river and strong wind patterns protect it from temperature extremes, allowing uniform ripening and excellent color development.
Winemaking
Gentle pumpovers were used to extract optimal flavor and color and minimize harsh tannins.
Each individual fermentation tank is tasted daily to evaluate the development of the tannins and structure and find the right moment to drain the wine from the skins.
Aging
Aged for 22 months in 16% New French oak, 39% New American oak.
