2018 GROWING SEASON:
The winter of 2018 was abnormally dry with little to no rainfall. The high pressure ridge that kept winter storms to the North of California broke down in March and allowed a series of winter storms to bring much needed rainfall across California. The cool, wet spring weather quickly transitioned to very warm weather for the months of May and June and grapevine growth was both rapid and healthy. Bloom conditions were optimal, and the resulting fruit set was even and uniform. The summer months of July and August were characterized with a persistent, foggy marine layer that kept temperatures well below normal. Due to the relatively cool and variable growing season, the grapes matured evenly while retaining their natural acidity, and developed spectacular color and rich flavors. Fruit from the vineyards was harvested during late September and was completed by the second week of October.
WINEMAKER NOTES:
We were extremely happy with the high-quality and abundant fruit harvested. During fermentation, we used both punch-down and pump-over techniques to ensure balanced extraction of flavor, aromatics, structure and color. To allow both the sweet and structural influences from the barrels to intermingle seamlessly with the rich fruit and ripe tannins of the wine, we aged Böen in 100% French oak, 60% new.
TASTING NOTES:
COLOR: Ruby Red with hints of plum.
AROMATICS: Raspberry tart, blueberry, dried rosemary, and molasses.
PALATE: Bold layers of blackberry, strawberry, and boysenberry pie, gives way to flavors of cocoa, nutmeg, and brown sugar. A full bodied wine, balanced by refreshing acidity on the long finish.
FOOD PAIRING:
Grilled rosemary lamb chops with potatoes au gratin, smoked brisket burger, or eggplant parmesan.