2001 Lewelling Cabernet Sauvignon

This distiguished 100% Cabernet Sauvignon was produced entirely from an historic St. Helena Vineyard named for the Lewelling family, Napa Valley growers since the 19th century. Situated west of Highway 29 at the base of Spring Mountain, the vines are rooted in deep, sandy loam soils on a gentle slope. This elite vineyard also supplies Cabernet Sauvignon grapes to other area wineries, including Caymus and Viader.

Grapes were harvested on September 12, 2001 at an average 24.32 degrees brix. 100% free run juice was fermented using the delastage method favored by leading Bordeaux chateaux - what we sometimes refer to as "rack and return". In this technique, the winemakers drain a tank of juice and transfer it to another tank, then return the juice to the fermenting tank, splashing it over the fallen cap of skins. This effects a more thorough maceration, resulting in enhanced color and flavor extraction. We have also incorporated seed removal with the delestage. This reduces the levels of seed tanins. Total maceration was 14 days. After maceration, the wine was pressed and transferred to 100% French Oak barrels. After aging for 18 months, the wine was lightly filtered and bottled.

This classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is deep garnet in color, with complex aromas of blackberry, current, and black cherry, herbs, and subtle earthy-mineral notes of terrior. On the palate, wine is medium-bodied, with fine, supple tannins. Black and red fruits on the palate, with creamy vanilla and mocha flavors. Well-balanced and intense, this wine will age beautifully for the next 8-12 years.

Appellation: Lewelling Vineyard, St. Helena, Napa Valley
Date: September 12, 2001
Brix: 24.32

Composition: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Barrel Aging: 100% French Oak
Alcohol: 13.5%
Total Acidity: 0.61g/100ml Residual Sugar
Dry Cases: 2360
Release Date: September 2004