WINEMAKER'S
NOTES:
The
wine balances ripeness and a supple texture with the
firm acids inherent in Barbera. Dark cherry and floral
aromas lead to rich, mouth filling plum, berry and
black cherry flavors, with hints of spice, and a touch
of almond and chocolate. The balance and acidity make
it a versatile wine for a wide range of foods from
pastas through meat dishes to grilled vegetables.
APPELLATION:
Napa
Valley
VINEYARDS:
This
vineyard is in Wooden Valley, in the eastern part
of the Napa Valley appellation, on benchland next
to two seasonal streams. Though a relatively unknown
region within Napa Valley, grapes have been grown
in Wooden Valley for almost as long as they have been
grown in Yountville and St. Helena. The vineyard mainly
produces high quality Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon,
but a block of Barbera represents an inspired match
of climate and clone.
VINTAGE:
The
grapes were harvested twice, with the later picking
from the rockiest part of the vineyard. The berries
were small, ripe and flavorful, mostly from a particular
Barbera clone isolated by a Davis professor. Their
quality was very high and ripeness developed complex
grape flavors, but not at the expense of the acidity
characteristic of this varietal.
COMPOSITION:
Barbera
96%
Petite Sirah 4%
AWARDS:
Silver
Medal
-
2003 Atlanta International Wine Summit (Pre-release)
Best of Class, Napa Appellations
- 2003 California State Fair
(Pre-release)
