Tasting notes

With hints of cocoa, vanilla, black cherry and “cassis”, this rich yet sleek and complex Cabernet Sauvignon has all the hallmarks of a grand cru Bordeaux. Exhibiting well integrated, ripe yet firm tannins and a long lingering finish, it is very enjoyable now but will gain even more complexity with age. Technical Information.

Wine maker notes

CLIMATE CHARACTERISTICS: The climate of Spring Mountain is unique. Early spring frosts are unlikely due to cold air moving down the slopes to the valley below. Fog often covers the valley while the Spring Mountain District is above the fog layer. Therefore maximum daytime temperature is reached an hour earlier than the valley. Then cooling begins earlier with shade is created by the sun’s gradual decent to the west. Cooling breezes from the Pacific Ocean also contribute to the late afternoon cooling. The minimum daily temperature is usually reached in the early evening. Temperatures then warm at night when the cool air settles down in the valley floor. These conditions create what we call high altitude ripening. This ripening, along with very low yields, natural drainage and infertile volcanic soil, give the wines of Spring Mountain a distinctive quality unlike any other appellation. WINE CHARACTERISTICS: The Cabernet of Spring Mountain is typically a very long-lived wine of very full body and purity of fruit. The wine has multi layers of complex flavors with long lingering finish. Yet, for all its boldness and intensity, there is a lush elegance and balance that makes Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon unique and distinctive. WINEMAKING: Arguably, it can be stated that 80% of a wine’s excellence comes from the appellation and proper viticultural practices. At least 20% then, must come from the touch of the winemaker. The winemaker’s skill lies in the careful nurturing of many diverse lots, each with unique characteristics, from the same vintage. These lots are crafted for the effects they will impart to the final ”blend” before bottling. To assist us in the quest for perfection, we have engaged the services of Christian LeSommer of France. Monsieur LeSommer has overseen production of the great wines of Chateau Latour, Chateau Lafite and Chateau d’Yquem. Assisting in the winemaking and vineyard development is Larry Langbehn, who has over thirty years of California winemaking experience. Until the new winery is ready for the crush of 2004, Christian has made and will make the wines at Monticello Winery.