Cabernet Sauvignon, 2014. Burgess Cellars

Burgess' Hillside Vineyards include the Estate and Haymaker vineyards. The Estate vineyard is located at the winery, facing west from the side of Howell Mountain, and has a slope averaging 22%. The soil is composed of "tuff," a volcanic ash, allowing the vineyard to drain very well. Haymaker is an eastern-facing mountain vineyard, located in a frost-free zone between the valley floor and mountain top with ancient marine sedimentary soils. The 2014 growing season was early, even and excellent! The early bud break and consistently moderate temperatures throughout spring and summer resulted in exceptional vine health and optimal ripening. Burgess was able to take their time planning vineyard picks to ensure the highest quality fruit with complex flavors and refined phenolic profiles.

The winter was one of the driest on record, but heavy rains before bud break gave the vines a well timed drink. The dry winter produced berries smaller in size, but more concentrated with flavors, and an earlier than normal harvest showed immediate promise of high quality. Gorgeous black fruit, gravel, violets, black cherry, anise, juicy palate with nice structure and velvety tannins along with chocolate flavors. Finishes with very elegant bittersweet tannins.

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