2000 VIADER

Cab Sauv 63%, Cab Franc 37%

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 11, 2002

Harvest: Sept 30 to Oct 11, 2000

Growing Notes: With the exception of a small number of heat spikes in June, the growing season was ideal. Hot days and cool nights reigned on our hillside, which in turn, allowed our berries to ripen at a steady rate, with exceptionally balanced acidity and immense complexity. Yields were small to normal. Our vineyards have been organically farmed and hand labored since 1988.

Production:

Winemaking Notes: Extended Maceration of hand selected lots. Malolactic fermentation occurs in barrel. 100% new French Oak barrels every year. Wine spends 21 months in Taransaud and Seguin Moreau barrels. Racked every 14-16 weeks, there was no fining or filtration. Our philosophy is to allow the grapes and the terroir (all factors that influence the character of grapes grown in a specific microclimate) , to express itself naturally , in every glass of Viader. Our distinctive blend of Cabernet Sauvignon —which provides the backbone or structure, character and complexity, with succulent fruit and rich tannins— and Cabernet Franc —which instills the aromatics, and provides the silky structure as well as suppleness and elegance in the lengthy finish—captures an ideal balance between the two, with the Cabernet Franc contributing early approachability and the Cabernet Sauvignon providing longevity.

Tasting Notes: Intense concentrated fruit with black currents, layers of chocolate, hints of licorice, anise, earth and leather, with a long, complex, and lingering aftertaste. Powerful nose and rich everlasting core of red and black fruits with well-incorporated tannins— though not overpowering—lead to an elegant and graceful gem