2002 Encounter - Sonoma County / Proprietary Red Wine
GRAPE SOURCE
The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot fruit come from Redwood Ranch in Alexander Valley, Bradford Mountain located on the northwestern side of Dry Creek Valley at about 1000 feet elevation, and Redwood Hill planted on terraced hills at an elevation of 1500 feet in the northeastern foothills of Mayacamas Mountains. The Petite Verdot and Cabernet Franc come from the Molinari Vineyard in Dry Creek Valley.
WINEMAKING
Encounter is our proprietary name for this classic Bordeaux-style blend. Gary devotes a great deal of time sourcing the fruit from numerous unique locations in Sonoma County. Finding those small high-elevation vineyards whose owners are so passionate about their fruit quality is the secret to producing some of the finest wines. The varietal components, as well as the vineyard sources, may change with each vintage. After carefully evaluating each lot, Gary selects the most interesting and finest barrels to assemble this red meritage blend. With its tremendous depth, structure and precise balance, this wine will age gracefully for many, many years under appropriate cellaring conditions.
WINEMAKER'S NOTES
Subtle aromas of ripe plum, blueberry, cassis, blackberry jam and cedar. Full body with black fruit flavors and hints of chocolate, black currant and Kalamata olives, that are further enhanced with classy oak and pepper spice. It is hugely gratifying for its intense richness and powerful structure. The wonderfully integrated tannins bring a sense of completeness to the package. Great candidate for long-term cellaring.
Bottled: April 27, 2004
Winemaker: Gary Farrell
Varietal Composition: 64% Cabernet, 15% Petit Verdot, 12% Merlot, 9% Cab Franc
Alcohol: 14.2%
Case Production: 203
Acid/pH: 0.71/3.40
Released: March 1, 2006
Appellation: Sonoma County
PAST VINTAGES
2001 Encounter - Sonoma County, Red Table Wine2000 Encounter - Sonoma County, Red Table Wine1999 Encounter - Sonoma County, Red Table Wine