GROWING SEASON:
■ The 2015 vintage was one of the warmest growing seasons on record
in Washington.
■ Warm temperatures continued through the spring and summer, moderating slightly into fall and extending an early harvest.
■ Overall, 2015 saw very favorable growing conditions, producing optimal ripening across varieties and yielding outstanding wines throughout the region.
VINEYARDS:
■ The Horse Heaven Hills vineyards are located in Eastern Washington.
This region is mostly dry with less precipitation due to the rain shadow effect from the surrounding Cascade Mountain range.
■ The terrain consists of south-facing slopes that provide excellent sun exposure for grape ripening, and protection from cold airflow during the winter months.
■ Strong wind patterns in the Horse Heaven Hills reduce canopy size and density and contribute to even ripening by moderating temperature extremes.
VINIFICATION:
■ Grapes were crushed and then fermented 6-10 days on the skins.
■ Malolactic fermentation occurred in stainless steel tanks and oak barrels. Blending occurred immediately after fermentation.
■ The majority of the wine (88%) aged for 9 months in a combination of new and older French and American oak barrels, while a small percentage of the wine (12%) aged in stainless steel tanks.
TASTING NOTES:
This bold Cabernet opens with flavors of black cherries and blackberries with a touch of currants and vanilla, complemented by earth and mineral notes. Deep berry flavors lead to a soft tannin cocoa finish. ~ Juan Muñoz Oca, Winemaker
Blend:
77% Cabernet
21 % Merlot
2% Syrah
Alcohol: 14.5%
Total Acidity: 0.54 g/100ml
pH: 3.78
Floral red currant aromas lead to focused, trim black cherry, crushed stone and tobacco flavors that finish with refined tannins. Drink now through 2023. 340,435 cases made. -TF. - Wine Spectator Magazine 89 Points
