2008 Cabernet Sauvignon

Generous aromas of blueberry and cassis with wisps of violets and lavender. Dense, vibrant flavors of polished black fruit, including black currant, black plum and blackberries, dusted with dark cocoa and a touch of graphite. Concentrated and lush on the palate, with opulent fruit, velvety texture, beautifully integrated oak notes and round, smooth tannins. Bright acidity draws the rich berry flavors through the exceptionally long finish. Delicious upon release; optimal cellaring time 4 to 15 years from vintage.

Rhinefarm Estate Vineyard; Estate grown, produced and bottled; Sustainably farmed; Shallow rhyolitic ash and alluvial wash soils; Steep, south-westerly facing slopes from 150 to 300 feet elevation; 24 distinct blocks planted 1976–1999, harvested in 25 lots; Martini selection; Clones 8 and 337; Yield 2.5 tons/acre

Harvest Dates: September 27 - October 25 Brix at Harvest: 26.0° Vinification: Harvested by hand; Each lot processed separately based on distinct profile; Three- to five-day cold soak, up to 28 days skin contact for most lots;Yeast strains D254; Extraction through gentle pump-overs, tailored to each lot; Base blend assembled ten months before bottling; Final blend assembled two weeks before bottling; Oak Regimen: 18 months in 100% French oak, 40% new; Medium tight grain, medium- plus toast; Primary coopers Vicard and Mercier

In 2008, there was more springtime frost than usual, but we were lucky enough to not be greatly affected—unlike some of our neighbors. We found ourselves enduring erratic temperatures in May, with heat spikes followed by cool weather and very little rain. June and July brought heat in combination with smoke strewn across Northern California. Luckily, our grapes were not affected by the smoke to our north. While the harvest was busy at first, mid-September brought cooler weather which slowed ripening, allowing us to catch our breath, and finish out the season calmly. The strong 2008 vintage resulted in small-berried, evenly ripe fruit, and concentrated wines full of distinctive character.

3,334 cases