World renowned. Washington grown.
2001 Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon
Tasting Notes
“Cherry, strawberry and cocoa aromas introduce a complex palate of caramel, chocolate and ripe fruit. This wine is plush and seductive in the mouth, and the fruit and oak are perfectly harmonious throughout the lingering finish.” - Ray Einberger, Winemaker
Growing Season
- Bud break occurred in mid-April, approximately one week later than a typical year.
- The vines thrived during excellent growing conditions in May and early June, and bloom occurred on time (mid-June).
- Above normal temperatures in July and August advanced ripening, and ideal temperatures in September and October (70s to 80s during the day; 40s to 50s during the night) allowed for excellent hang time and flavor maturity.
Vineyards
- The Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon is harvested predominantly from vineyards located on the Horse Heaven Hills (texture and body) and the Wahluke Slope (aromatics and complexity).
- Columbia Valley vineyards are seated east of the Cascade Mountain range. Up to 14,000 feet high, the mountains effectively block eastward-moving wet weather systems from the Pacific Ocean.
- Just 6 to 8 inches of rainfall reach the growing region annually. Vineyards are 100% drip irrigation.
- The soils have low fertility and low water-holding capacity, allowing precise control of vine growth patterns.
- Vines are planted north to south on south and southeast facing slopes.
Vinification
- Grapes were crushed with 10% whole berry remaining.
- A combination of fermentation regimes-rotary, open top and stainless steel-extracted optimum fruit and textural components.
- Malolactic fermentation followed in new and older American oak barrels.
- The wine barrel-aged for 14 months.
Technical Data
- Total acidity: 0.59 g/100ml
- pH: 3.67
- Alcohol: 13.50%
- Blend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Food Pairings
Steak, pasta with red sauce, vegetable stew