2007

To create the best possible wine from the young Palengat site, we decided to drop the previous “Cabernet Sauvignon” designation to allow greater flexibility with the wine’s composition. This year’s blend was 74 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 16 percent Cabernet Franc, 5 percent Merlot and 5 percent Petit Verdot. We didn’t stray too far from last year, but the change made an appreciable difference.

All of the fruit came from the Palengat Vineyard, the site having been planted in phases between 1997 and 2002. Its exposition on the south facing slope on Phinney Hill is ideal for perfect grape ripening, and it is right next to Champoux Vineyard, so we had a good idea of what we could achieve as the vineyard matured. Paul Champoux has managed Palengat’s 8.5 acres from the beginning, and we’re very pleased with the development of this high-density site.

The wine is rich and full bodied and showcases its floral violet, plum, cassis and sundried cherry fruit characteristics. The texture is lush, with savory layers of asphalt, smoked meat, and Asian spices.

Paul Golitzin, Director of Winemaking