2004 VIADER
Cab Sauv 60%, Cab Franc 40%
The Wine: The VIADER blend captures an ideal balance between Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The Cabernet Franc contributes to the early approachability, elegant structure and violet-like aromatics while the Cabernet Sauvignon adds complexity and character as well as providing the backbone structure for long aging potential. VIADER is made from the finest selection of our hillside estate on Howell Mountain.
Released: November 1, 2006
Harvest: September 20 to 26, 2004
Growing Notes: The 2004 growing season started with an early bud break followed by heat spikes in June and at scattered intervals throughout the summer season. Grapes completed veraison early allowing for even maturity and well developed sugars. Steady warm temperatures towards the end of the season made for one of the earliest harvests in history. Grape quality was very good with a crop that was smaller than average. The 2004 growing season balanced the unique characteristics of our terroir. Warm summer days built up intensity and complexity in the grapes, while the cool nights ensured good acidity levels.
Production: 3000
Winemaking Notes: We use extended maceration on hand selected lots of our most promising fruit and allow malo-lactic fermentation to occur in barrel. The wine spends a minimum of 23 months in new French oak barrels in our underground caves. Our wine regime usually calls for racking every 12 - 14 weeks, so there is no need for fining or filtration. Our philosophy is to allow the grapes and terroir (all factors that influence the character of grapes grown in a specific microclimate) to express naturally in every glass of Viader.
Tasting Notes: The 2004 Viader showcases the best the vintage has to offer: intense, upfront, floral bouquet laced with chocolate, coffee, anise, earth and leather. Lingering, complex tannins firm up in the finish which is rounded by the powerful aromas of blackberry, blueberry and mint. Although quite approachable now bottle aging will further develop bouquet and complexity. This powerful gem will continue to age superbly over the next two decades. Cheers! To a wonderfully elegant mountain beauty!
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