2009 Carmenere Tasting Notes

Bud Break: April 29, 2009
Veraison: August 1, 2009
Oak Regime: 60% French Oak and 40% American Oak
Barrel Age: 1/3 new barrel, 1/3 one year old and 1/3 two year old
Primary Coopers: Keystone, Radoux and Alain Fouquet
Harvest Date: October 13, 2009
Bottling Date: September 3, 2010
Alcohol:  12.2% 

PDF Tasting Notes

“The 2009 Carmenere captures your nose with aromas of nice white pepper, black fruit and cherry. On the palate there are smooth, ripe tannins showcasing notes of cherry, cedar, tobacco leaf and chocolate. All in all a balanced, elegant wine with amazing complexity, nice acidity and a beautiful long finish.” 
Graham Pierce, Winemaker

“The 2009 growing season started o with a cool spring which resulted in a later than normal bud break. However the cool spring was quickly followed by an exceptional fruit set in June and excellent growing conditions. This enabled rapid vine growths and the vineyard caught up quickly to where it should be. Steady warm and dry conditions graced the valley throughout the summer months and into the fall, which made for an early ripening of the grapes. The result was fruit of first rate quality, some of the best we have ever seen.”
Steve Carberry, Winegrower