In 1840 Alexander Valley namesake Cyrus Alexander rode into our valley and called it the "brightest and best spot in the world". He chose this spot to build his home and raise his family, and many years later we would do the same. Our 25th release is our tribute to the man, the region and the very best of the vintage.
Although the weather was a bit cooler than usual early in the 2019 growing season, there were no unusual temperature swings during bud break or flowering. Moderate temperatures continued through the summer, allowing the grapes to mature gradually. After 2018’s record setting crop size, 2019 swung back to an average yield. After harvest each lot was fermented and aged separately for 12 months, blended to showcase the vintage, then aged for an additional 12 months in French oak barrels to meld the flavors. Additional bottle aging resulted in a seamless blend.
The saturated dark purple color hints lets you know that this is a big wine. Layered aromas of cassis, black cherry, cedar, dark chocolate, vanilla and oak fill the glass. While young, the 2019 is a lush wine with integrated tannins and excellent balance. Cassis, dark chocolate, black cherry and barrel spice along with a structured long finish keep you coming back for another sip. Let it sit in the glass and develop, and you will get an idea of the complexity that will occur with additional cellar aging.
This wine is allocated.
ACCOLADES:
2019: 94 points - James Suckling
