Cabernet Sauvignon | three vineyards v.2017 SONOMA COUNTY, DRY CREEK VALLEY
Three Vineyard Blend:
Estate fruit was harvested from the northern end of Dry Creek Valley, where these Bordeaux varietals excel. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec were hand-picked just a mile from the winery. Here these varietals develop exceptional character on the vineyard sites situated on the valley bench. The vines receive the right amount of sun and cooling fog which develops optimal flavors in the grapes. Careful vineyard management during the growing season defines the style even more.
Winemaking:
The growing season of 2017 was a good one with plenty of rain and later on warm temperatures which set a very good growth cycle and developed the flavors and maturation of the grapes. While there was a heat spike at the beginning of September the varietals held up well. The fruit was picked the final week of September. The culmination is of great quality with a high concentration of flavors and a good level of acidity.
The grapes are de-stemmed and cold-soaked for 48 hours. Inoculated with the Bordeaux yeast strain, fermentation followed in stainless steel tanks. During this time, in order to get the best color and flavor, the juice is circulated over the cap daily and gently macerated to extract the color and flavors from the skins. Once dry the new wine is pressed and stored until barreled in the winter. The separate varietal lots were aged in American and French oak barrels for sixteen months in order to develop smoothness and complexity. The final blend of the four grapes adds deep character and a great flavor profile.
Tasting Notes:
Dark red with purple hints around the edges. Aromas of dark ripe berries, dried herbs, and earthy tones introduce this medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. Soft tannins are framed by cherry, plum, and blackberry fruit followed by hints of oregano and bay leaf. Great structure and good acidity combine with a spicy finish. Enjoy upon release or cellar up to eight more years.
APPELLATION: Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County
COMPOSITION: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec
BARREL AGING: 16 months in American oak combined with 35% new French oak barrels
ALCOHOL: 14.5%
pH: 3.68
TOTAL ACIDITY: .550g/100ml
Pedroncelli Winery has come a long way since 1927, when John Pedroncelli, Sr. purchased vineyards and a small winery in Sonoma County's Dry Creek Valley. Today, the vineyards are planted to premium grape varieties, the winery is filled with modern equipment, and wines bearing the Pedroncelli name grace tables from coast to coast. But two elements from 70 years ago remain unchanged: the exceptional place the Pedroncelli family grows grapes, and the family's dedication to making fine wines.
