Description

CASK 23 is a tale of two vineyards that come together in a harmonious blend. For the 2016 offering, 56% of the fruit is from FAY vineyard (blocks 7A&B, 8C2, 10A, 12A, 3A, 2A) and 44% is from S.L.V. (blocks 3B, 2B, 2A, 4). Specific blocks within these adjoining ranches provide distinct attributes to the wine. Vines planted in volcanic soils on the eastern hillsides of S.L.V. and FAY give CASK 23 its structure, concentration, spicy intensity and elegant tannins; those grown in the alluvial soils in the middle and lower sections of the two vineyards add vibrant fruit flavors, a supple mid-palate and perfumed aromatics.

10% of the wine was fermented in new French Oak barrels with the heads removed. After malolactic fermentation, the lees were stirred daily for several months to add richness to the wine. Each lot was vinified and aged separately for the first year allowing the characteristics of each block to develop, while adding subtle spice notes. In the second year of aging, the lots were blended together to let the flavors harmonize, becoming one in CASK 23. Overall, the wine was aged in small French oak barrels for 20 months.

The 2016 CASK 23 combines the signature perfume notes of FAY vineyard with the structure and dark fruit of S.L.V. Complex and intriguing, the wine opens with aromas of boysenberry, black cherry, mocha and black licorice. The wine is rich and opulent on the palate with crushed mixed berry and spice flavors that are supported by ample, yet plush, tannins. The wine has great presence and persistence with a finish filled with black currant and violet spice. Enjoy this CASK 23 with coffee-rubbed pork chops, steak au poivre with blackberry demi-glace, or with roasted root vegetable panzanella.