Desert Wind and Desert Rain
TASTING NOTES:
Cabernet Sauvignon - “The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon begins with black currant, raspberry jam, mocha, sandalwood, and a nice floral lift. Swirling brings riper fruit and spice, with blackberry compote, figs, dark cherry, oak spice, nutmeg, and hints of spearmint and cinnamon. The mouthfeel has great sweetness and concentration, almost juicy, but with good structure and gorgeous acidity. The oak presentation here is very well integrated and frames the overall bouquet. The wine finishes long, with a touch of grip. Drink now or in the next 8 years.” (AbV 14.5%)
Merlot - “The 2019 Merlot opens with aromas of black cherry, fig, and dried herbs. The palate is sultry and smooth, with flavors of blackberry, vanilla, and a hint of coffee. The tannins are velvety and the finish is long with a touch of spice. It’s a crowd pleaser for any table!” (AbV 14.6%, TA 5.4 g/L, pH 3.5)
VARIETALS: Merlot is 84% Merlot, 16% Syrah. Cabernet Sauvignon is 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 6% Syrah.
BARRELS: 18-19 months in French oak.
PAIRS WITH: N/A
THAT REMINDS ME OF: Deserts.
A desert is a climate region where evaporation exceeds precipitation, making it exceptionally dry. The key word is dry, and not hot. Because some deserts aren’t always hot, even during the daytime. Everyone knows deserts can get cold at night, but a few in Central Asia and amidst the Rockies of the US actually get cold all day during the fall and winter. These deserts, and most hot ones too, are caused by something known as a rain shadow.
Mountains that are tall and wide enough cause rainclouds to expend all their moisture going up, leaving none for the other side. On top of that, the air that continues over to the other side compresses as it goes, causing it to warm up, further absorbing any moisture that might have gotten there.
