Post on 11-Jan-2017
transcript
2012 NAPA VALLEY CYGNET MERLOT
GROWING SEASON:2012 was an almost picture-perfect growing season in Napa Valley for all grape
varieties. Generous rainfall in March and even temperatures in April and May were
ideal for budbreak and bloom for our Merlot. Long, warm days along with cool,
often foggy nights throughout the season led to an early October harvest for this
variety. Yield was slightly above normal, and the fruit exhibited bright aromatics
plus acid balance. The grapes were gently hand harvested, then processed
immediately upon arrival at the winery.
VINEYARDS:Merlot: from our mid-valley Oakville Cross Road Estate, a small block in a vineyard
adjacent to our estate, and a site on the flank of the Mayacamas range in Oakville.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Calistoga, Rutherford and Oakville
Petit Verdot: Oak Knoll district
WINEMAKER’S NOTES:The 2012 is the 2nd vintage of Cygnet, a wine designed to retain the fresh lushness
of ripe Merlot grapes, yet exhibit the complexity and texture that only come with
aging in small barrels. 2012 was a warm vintage, which is reflected in the depth of
flavor and generous mouth feel of this wine. Deep purple-hued red color, and an
array of black fruits more commonly associated with Cabernet lead to a mouthful of
velvety, ripe tannins. Lingering notes of cocoa, clove and black cherry echo long
after the wine is swallowed. Optimum suggested drinking is 2015 to 2018.
- Chris Phelps, Winemaker
BLEND:83% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot
HARVEST DATE:Merlot: Sept 17–Oct 17Cabernet Sauvignon: Oct 12–22 Petit Verdot: Sept 28
BOTTLING DATE:April 2014
WINEMAKING:2 days cold soaking, 22 days average maceration on skins; 16 months in barrels: 70% American, 30% French oak