TASTE BENCHMARKS | |||
Profile #1 Drinkable Style |
Profile #2 Ageworthy Style |
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Appearance | Medium ruby to garnet | Dark and dense. | |
Aroma | Plums and cocoa are signature aromas; sometimes also white pepper and leather, acquiring with age a bouquet reminiscent of grilled beef. | Rich violets, white pepper and sorrel. | |
Flavor | Soft tannins, medium bodied, round and quaffable. | Firm, well-structured tannins. | |
Balance | Soft acidity for current drinking. | Restrained alcohol, somewhat closed in youth. | |
PRODUCTION CORRELATIONS | |||
Oenological | Standard techniques. 12-15 months in mixed oak. | Extended maceration. | |
Viticultural | Moderate hangtime. Vigourous vines are balanced with 6-7 tons per acre, resulting in drinkable wines of great affordability. | Clones 97 and 383 show great promise. | |
Terroir | Heavy clays throughout the Valley floor, from Region I to III. | Plantings off the Valley floor have denser, harder tannins. |