Red garnet in color. A classic bouquet of black currant, cherry, cocoa, toasted oak, and blackcurrant bud. Approachable with good acidity, firm yet restrained tannins, and lingering berry flavors.

 

The 2009 growing season was unique. Bud break occurred two to three weeks later than normal, followed by warmer than normal temperatures from July into early August. Veraison, the point at which first color and berry softening begins to occur, took place on August 7th, considered typical for our site. Temperatures throughout the remainder of August were below normal leading to some reduction in ripening. September and the start of October were glorious, and the Yakima Valley enjoyed warmer than normal temperatures allowing the fruit to ripen more quickly than would normally occur. On the morning of October 11th temperatures dropped to 19 degrees and colder, resulting in the rapid defoliation of our vines. Harvest became imperative for any vineyards not yet harvested, including most all of our Cabernet Sauvignon. We were able to complete harvest within two weeks of the freeze, ensuring no loss in fruit quality.