“V” showcases the Petit Verdot grape with its very dense, almost inky color and high natural acidity, from the VIADER Estate.  Each year “V” is blended and aged over two years in new French oak barrels with its more recognized cousin, Cabernet Sauvignon, to express the uniqueness of the vintage.  Due to the very small size of the Petit Verdot plantings, this wine will always be short on production, but long on personality.

 

Winemaker Notes:

With incredibly intriguing qualities, the fruit and structure of the 2005 “V” exudes a tantalizing touch of mystery.  Rose petals and harmonizing aromas of dry sandalwood and burnt caramel bring back memories of caramel brittle.  Vibrant black cherries, black currant and pomegranate coat the palate with piquant spice, full body and vanillin on the finish. The most unique “V” to date.

 

The Terroir of “V”:

The Petit Verdot plantings (all 2,396 vines) are located in the northeast corner of the vineyard in a tiny, two acre plot planted in 1986.  The soil is particularly rocky and the yields are pitifully small.  The wines made from these grapes show such a distinct personality as to remind you of “liquid bittersweet chocolate in the glass,” but with fewer calories.

 

Growing Season:

Winter rains took pause for a dry, mild March then began again with record-setting precipitation late into the growing season delaying bloom and set. The summer months were cool and pleasant with few heat spikes. Fog and cool temperatures were a concern heading into September as sugar levels were yet to rise. Warm, nearly perfect conditions arrived with an Indian Summer making for a later than average harvest, allowing our  fruit extended hang-time and ultimately excellent sugar development and balanced acids with an average to low crop load of what could be a signature vintage from Napa Valley. 

RELEASE DATE: Spring 2008

WINEMAKER: Delia Viader & Alan Viader (son)

CONSULTANT:  Michel Rolland

APPELLATION:  Napa Valley

HARVEST DATE:  Oct. 24, 2005

PRODUCTION:   264 cases