Harvest Date
October 25, 2006
Months in Oak
Twenty
Alcohol
18.9
Brix
26
pH
3.82
TA
6.4 grams/liter
Rs
5.7%
Production
198 cases
Appellation: Hames Valley
The Vineyard
One visit to the Douro region of Portugal leaves you with the realization that there is no other place like this on earth. Although Hames Valley has no severely terraced vineyards, the soil is sparse and the summer temperatures are relentlessly hot, just like the Douro. For this reason, I have chosen this vineyard which closely models that of Portugal.
The Vintage
February was dry and warm bringing our vines out of their winter slumber in early March. Cold weather returned mid-month with two days of snow, while the ensuing months saw record rainfall and cloud cover not experienced since 1906. This resulting in delayed vine growth and ripening for all varieties. From July through the end of harvest we bounced between extreme periods of high heat and cold, dense fog. Harvested started in late September, and the extended growing season resulted in high quality fruit due to extended "hang-time" on the vine.
The Winemaking
Being the fan of Port that I am, this wine was made to the exacting standards and methods of Portuguese Port law as they apply to “declared” Vintage wines. From harvest parameters to vinification, plus two years of barrel aging, this wine emulates California’s version of the original - Porto. Since the greatest Ports are blends, I too have used the following Portuguese varieties to make this wine:
Tasting Notes
Blackberries, raisins, black pepper and licorice typify this classic Port. A subtle tannin structure, combined with the natural sweetness of the grapes, makes this a readily approachable dessert wine. Try this Port with strong cheeses, dried fruits and nuts, or as I like it, by itself in front of the fireplace.
Steve Pessagno, Winemaker
Price: $36
Receive 10% Off Your Total with a 12 bottle (case) Purchase
Receive 15% Off Your Purchase
Receive 20% Off Your Total with a 12 bottle (case) Purchase