1999 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County
Vintage
1999
Price
$42
Release Date
September 2002
Appellation
Sonoma County
Availability
Select Markets Nationally
Vineyards
- Dry Creek Valley - Vignamabile Vineyard
- Alexander Valley - Pusich Vineyards
- Sonoma Valley - Sunny Slope Vineyard
Download
- Wine Notes [.pdf 20k]
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. For growing seasons with unique personality, 1999 did not disappoint. We did see some hot weather but much less than normal. We had good weather for bud- break and bloom that helped insure a good set. Because of the late season, which creates the potential for fruit not to ripen - we employed judicious irrigation during the summer to control growth and uniformity and we crop thinned after verasion to aid in ripening. As we entered mid September (latest ever), we needed heat and got it. Once harvest began in earnest in late September things went very quickly, by October 23rd it was effectively over.
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. Extended maceraction provided maximum extraction. 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. Alcohol 14.5%, Total Acidity .62, pH 3.56, Residual Sugar- dry. Cases produced: 2614.
Tasting Notes
This Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a big wine showing black fruit, currant, spice, chocolate, cassis, and black pepper notes. It is round on entry and rich in the mouth with a texture that is enhanced by creamy fruit and chalky tannins, finishing with sweet black cherry and currant. Cellared properly, this wine will develop over the next 5-10 years and age for 15-20 years.