Production Notes
Varietal Content
63% Syrah, 35% Grenache
1% Carignane, 1% Cabernet Sauvignon
Cooperage
100% French oak
45% new, 55% second vintage
Winemaker Notes
The aromas are dark and sweet, with abundant layers of blueberry and blackberry, as well as sophisticated notes of sage, vanilla and peppery spice. On the palate, the flavors are smooth and lush, with a lovely interplay between blue fruit and violet layers. The long, lingering finish offers additional hints of chocolate and spice.
Production
Though the 2008 growing season presented certain challenges—from early frosts to drought conditions—a meticulous approach to viticulture and sorting yielded small crops with good concentration, highlighting soft, appealing tannins for our red varietals and bright acidity for our white grapes. A long, moderately cool summer led to a harvest that commenced in mid-August and concluded in early November. This relatively relaxed pace allowed us to pick in numerous passes to ensure quality, often focusing on individual rows or a single side of the vines.