2000 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Blend
94% Cabernet Sauvignon
6% Petite Verdot
Production
3,140 cases of 750 ml bottles
The Vintage
2000 presented a stunning growing season of warm days and cool nights. There was excellent grape flavor and acid development as the grapes ripened sweetly and evenly into September. In September and October, the weather cooled, delaying the ripening process. This cooler Fall weather gave the grapes longer hang time in the vineyard for added flavor development. The result is very good balance and soft, ripe tannin development.
Winemaking
The Petite Verdot grapes were harvested first on Septmber 22, 2000. These grapes were harvested from a small vineyard block in Calistoga. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were again harvested from the Leonardini and Morisoli Vineyards. These grapes were picked by hand on October 20, 21 and 23, 2000. The wine was aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels for 22 months.
Tasting Notes
This classic Cabernet is easily approachable with a deep ruby color and enticing aromas of red cherry, currant and spicy oak. The texture of this wine is silky smooth on the mid-palate with ripe flavors of cassis, berry and cherry lingering well beyond the long velvety finish. There is outstanding balance and good structure that lends to the age worthiness of this elegant offering.