Vintage: The 2000 vintage was another long, late harvest. Excellent springtime conditions resulted in good berry set and above average yields. Moderate summer temperatures allowed the fruit to mature slowly, and develop intense flavors. The wines from this vintage have powerful aromas, rich palates, and outstanding acid/tannin balance.
Vineyard: Tempranillo is the noble grape of Spain. It is the predominant varietal in the wines from the famous Rioja region, where it is sometimes blended with Garnacha (Grenache), Graciano, and Mazuelo (Carignan). In 1998 two acres of Tempranillo were planted on an isolated knoll in the southern part of the Truchard Estate Vineyard. The vines grow in volcanic soils and benefit from the cool Carneros temperatures. Tempranillo makes a unique, spicy wine, with deep purple color, lush texture, and firm acidity. It is a wonderful food wine.
Harvest: October 24 • 24.5 ºBrix • 3.70 pH • 7.2 g/L TA
Winemaking: The fruit was gently destemmed and crushed into an open top fermenter with approximately 20% whole berries. The tank was inoculated with Pasteur Red yeast and punched down twice daily throughout the fermentation. The temperature peaked at 88º F. After 14 days of maceration, the lot was pressed and allowed to settle in tank before going to barrel. The wine was aged for 10 months in both French (85%) and American (15%) oak; 25% of these barrels were new. The wine was racked only one time before being bottled in August 2001. This wine is 100% Tempranillo. It is very approachable right now, but will reward careful cellaring.
Wine Analysis: 13.9% alcohol • 3.80 pH • 6.6 g/l TA
Tasting Notes: An exotic nose of ripe plum, black cherry, and cassis; accented with hints of tobacco, orange peel, and sweet vanilla. The mouth is soft and smooth: plum jam, and boysenberry, followed by red currant and bittersweet chocolate. Chalky tannins and firm acidity lift the palate and give the wine a long spicy finish.
Release Date: May 1, 2002
Cases Produced: 517
