2007
Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon, Hyde Vineyard Carneros, Napa Valley
Winemaker's Notes
This sophisticated violet-hued cabernet sauvignon offers intense aromas of lavender, vanillin, earth and spice.The palate opens slowly to reveal layer after layer of dense, dark fruits; blueberry, black raspberry and cassis.Subtle undercurrents of black tea, sage and orange oil add further dimension as firm tannins and charcoal notes emerge to create a memorable finish. Alcohol 14.9%
The 2007 growing season was preceded by a mild, dry winter. Bud break came early, setting a crop of highly concentrated berries in small clusters. Summer brought ideal weather with warm, even temperatures through veraison. Late summer heat spikes in Napa Valley were mediated by the cooling ocean breezes that reach Carneros from the bay. Fruit had ample time for phenolics as well as sugars to reach optimum levels. The result was a slow, steady harvest of exceptional quality, with wines showing great intensity and structure.
Winemaking
§Hand-harvested grapes
§Fermented in a single 5-ton closed-top stainless steel fermentor with indigenous yeasts
