2002 VIADER

Cab Sauv 51%, Cab Franc 49%

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. VIADER is aged up to 24 months in French oak barrels.

Released: September 1, 2004

Harvest: Sept 30 to Oct 11, 2002

Growing Notes: The 2002 was a long, balanced and mostly mild growing season. Generally cool weather alternated with periods of warmth accentuated the spring. Summer came loaded with mostly warm days followed by cool mountainside nights allowing the fruit to develop complexity and intensely concentrated flavors. This mild weather also enabled us to give the grapes a long “hanging on the vine” period which brought them to a balanced phenolics/acidity level and allowed full physiological maturity. Our vineyards are completely organic and biodynamically farmed.

Production: 2250

Winemaking Notes: The 2002 Viader showcases the best the vintage has to offer: intense, upfront, concentrated dark fruit notes laced with licorice, chocolate, anise, earth and leather. Lingering, complex tannins firm up in the finish which is rounded by powerful floral aromas of blackberry, blueberry and mint. Although quite approachable now bottle aging will further develop bouquet and complexity.