l’usine Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2017

Marking the warmest year since 2008, the 2015 growing season set a record for early bloom. Drought conditions persisted, and rainfall was erratic, with most of the much-needed rain falling at the end of the previous year and supplemented by only a single storm in February, which was enough water to sustain the vines. Cooler conditions during flowering ultimately lead to a smaller number of berries on each cluster and lower than average yields. Warm summer months led to advanced veraison, which was followed by perfect ripening conditions. Harvest began on September 1 with short pauses; heat spells and continued warmth allowed for the berries to be steadily picked at their ideal maturity. The harvest was completed on October 8.

Initial dark fruit, spice and baking aromas in the 2015 Opus One are interwoven with seductive notes of violet, black tea, and sage. The entry is vibrant with ripe dark fruit flavors of plum, blackberry and blueberry followed by hints of vanilla and cocoa. Silky, fine-grained tannins provide structure and a creamy texture. The wine finishes with fresh acidity and a rich, lingering finish that promises longevity in the cellar.

Varietal : Cabernet Sauvignon 81%, Cabernet Franc 7%, Merlot 6%, Petit Verdot 4%, Malbec 2%

Bordeaux AOC, France

Aromatic to the nose with notes of buttery-vanillin oak flavours and exotic fruit (orange rind and honeyed grapefruit).  On the palate, the wine is round, fleshy with wonderful minerality and again, delightful exotic fruit flavours.  The new-oak flavours are present. Very nice balance between the oak, fruit and acidity.  Excellent finish.

100% Sauvignon Blanc. Harvest is done 100% by hand. Following a skin-contact maceration, 75% of the juice is fermented in vats and 25% in oak-barrels. During this ageing period, “batonnage” is carried out.  After blending and filtration, bottling is carried out in late spring following the harvest.