Chalk Hill Estate Red 2007

The 2007 Estate Red marks the culmination of thirty years of site-specific research with the goal of creating a single red wine that evokes the unique character of the Chalk Hill Estate. We have matched our diverse terrain, soils and mesoclimates to specific Bordeaux varieties, clones and rootstocks. The Estate Red combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Carmenère. Grown on rocky hillsides with sunny aspects, our red vineyards are thinned to low yields and canopies are diligently maintained to ensure the clusters reach optimum maturity. We are dedicated to managing tannins in the vineyard and patiently wait for flavor development as single vineyard blocks are micro-managed and frequently divided into multiple harvests to achieve desired ripeness. Winemaking practices are geared toward extracting the softest tannins from the skins and promoting fruit expression, with a combination of tank and barrel fermentations. Aged in French oak barrels for 20 months, this wine is a compilation of 42 small lots, each treated individually until the initial blending at 10 months barrel age. Aromas are varied and complex, featuring warm black raspberries, crème de cassis, violets, roasted herbs, and pipe tobacco. The palate delivers concentrated red fruits, dried cranberries and black plum leading to a more savory element of sage and black pepper. Textured yet silky, the wine finishes long and is enjoyable upon release, but will also age beautifully for the next 15+ years.

Blend: 51% cabernet sauvignon; 24% malbec; 13% merlot; 11% petit verdot; 1% carmenère