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1998 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County

Vintage

Each year, as part of our Reserve program, we select the best blocks from the best vineyards, which are then kept separate through the winemaking process until being selected, barrel-by-barrel, for the final blend. In 1998, a growing season noted for its coolness and length, our Dry Creek and Alexander Valley vineyards, which are naturally low yielding and late ripening locations, produced intense, fully mature and ripe fruit. Sunny Slope Vineyard, in Sonoma Valley, once again produced the deeply colored, intensely flavored and well-structured fruit that is the hallmark of this rocky hillside site.

Vinification

A variety of techniques were used to maximize the distinct character of each lot. For example, all lots were cold-soaked, but some for as little as one day and others for as many as five days. Three different yeasts were used, and the wine was fermented in small lots in open top fermentors and punched down daily by hand. All of the lots underwent malolactic fermentation and all were aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, new, one-year and older. We work to extend the fermentation times and reduce the time from pressing to barrel to complete the malolactic fermentation in barrel. This is done to improve the texture and mouthfeel as well as to integrate the flavors. Unfiltered. Alcohol 13.75%, total acidity .60, pH 3.66, residual sugar - dry. 2,232 cases produced.

Tasting Notes

This Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a big wine with black plum, herb, smoke and cedar aromas. It is round on entry and rich in the mouth with a texture that is enhanced by creamy fruit and chalky tannins, finishing with black cherry and currant. Cellared properly, this wine will develop over the next 5-10 years and should last 15-20 years.

Terry Nolan, Winemaker