Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon 2002

"The lush cassis and raspberry fruit is surrounded by cocoa, spice and toast notes. The fruit really pumps through the finish, offset by a mineral note that adds further dimension. Elegant and well put together. Drink now through 2008."
-Wine Spectator

A classic Cabernet Sauvignon that can compete with the best from around the world this wine has an intense red/purple color and an enjoyable, complex nose that is reminiscent of berries, spice, cedar and chocolate. The nose carries though to the palate, delivering rich, full texture and berry-spicy-cedar favors. It has a well-balanced finish with a lingering, pleasing after taste.

The grapes come primarily from the Asti and Doña Elsa Estate, situated in Rama Caída, San Rafael, Mendoza, aroung 760 meters/2493 feet above sea level. It is an ideal climate for the Cabernet Sauvignon grape because of the warm days and cool nights that are typical of the area. The soil is of sandy calcareous composition and alluvial origins. Picked by hand, the grapes go through classical crushing with periodic pump-overs, fermentation and maceration on skins for three weeks. The wine was aged for 12 months on 90% French and 10% American barrels.