< 2004 Chalk Hill Chairman's Club Cabernet Sauvignon/Carmenère
COMPLETE TASTING NOTES
Crafted exclusively for the Chairman’s Club, this wine showcases the harmony between the Bordeaux varieties— in this case, two different clones of Cabernet and a liberal portion of Carmenère. In this first-ever blend Carmenère takes the slot often reserved for Merlot. Carmenère, a popular and widely planted grape in Chile, was once thought to actually be Merlot. Its vine physiology may be the same, but the resultant wine is significantly different. f In 2004, the vineyards on the estate slowly advanced to full maturity, gaining richness, weight, and flavor concentration. After hand-harvesting, the bunches were shepherded through our traditional winemaking. The entire vintage was allowed to progress through 100% native primary and malolactic fermentations, which imparted layers of texture, richness and complexity. Aged for sixteen months in 100% medium-toast Taransaud barrels (50% new); this wine offers, from its Cabernet component, intense aromas of raspberry jam, and cassis. Carmenère’s contribution is of cigar box with hints of black olive, anise and black pepper. The seamlessly integrated oak complements the ripe, soft tannins. Unfined and unfiltered.
REVIEW
Wine Enthusiast awards the Chalk Hill Estate Chairman's Club Cabernet Sauvignon/Carmenere 91 Points
Complete Review
Wine Advocate awards 2004 Chalk Hill Cabernet Sauvignon/Carmenere 91 Points
Complete Review
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
- Blend:
- 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Carmene`re
- Vineyard:
- 100% Chalk Hill Estate
- Appellation:
- 100% Chalk Hill Appellation, Russian River Valley
- Ageing:
- Sixteen months, 50% new French oak
- Fermentation:
- 100% native yeasts and malolactic, with weekly batonage
- Harvested:
- October 14, 2004 brix 26 t.a. 5.1 g/l pH 3.92
- Bottled:
- April 27, 2006 alcohol 15.0% t.a. 5.0 g/l pH 3.89
