Palate
Cabernet Franc from Cold Creek is one of the most special wines I get to make – there is only one parcel of these old-vines, originally planted in 1972, and they are amazing to work with. The 2015 vintage was the warmest and earliest on record, however our cool Harvest evenings kept the natural acidity intact, so all of the lush, ripe fruit has a tight framework of acidity to best showcase Cold Creek Cab Franc! It is decadent, luxurious and also tightly wound, for enjoyment now and especially with some bottle aging.
Growing Conditions
The 2015 vintage was one of the warmest growing seasons on record in Washington.
Warm temperatures continued through the spring and summer, moderating slightly into fall and extending an early harvest.
Overall, 2015 saw very favorable growing conditions, producing optimal ripening across varieties and yielding outstanding wines throughout the region.
Planted in 1973, the south-facing Cold Creek Vineyard is a warm, dry site with high heat accumulation.
The low yielding old vines produce small clusters and small berries, resulting in intense varietal flavors and deep color.
Cold Creek typically is one of the earliest vineyards in the region to ripen.
Cold Creek vineyard is LIVE and Salmon Safe certified.
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 68% New French oak and 32% Neutral French oak.
