2004 Encounter - Sonoma County / Proprietary Red Wine

88 points - California Grapevine
87 points - Wine Enthusiast Magazine

GRAPE SOURCE
Encounter is our proprietary name for this classic Bordeaux-style blend. Prime vineyard sites are meticulously selected to supply the fruit for Encounter, looking specifically for small high-elevation vineyards farmed by growers who are passionate about their fruit quality. The varietal components and vineyard sources may change with each vintage

The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot fruit for Encounter come from the 2.5 acre Calypso Vineyard, located on a sloping hillside near Forestville. With additional Merlot from the 1,500 ft. elevation Redwood Hill Vineyard, owned by Patrick and Susan Coonan, located in the northeastern corner of the Mayacamas mountain range in Sonoma County.

WINEMAKING NOTES
After carefully evaluating each lot, only the most interesting and finest barrels were used to assemble this red meritage blend. With its tremendous depth, structure and precise balance, this wine will age gracefully for many years under optimal cellaring conditions.

TASTING NOTES
This Meritage wine has complex aromas of ripe plum, blueberry, cassis and blackberry jam. It is full bodied and dense with black currant flavors and hints of chocolate and subtle spice notes, along with substantial, polished and well-integrated tannins. Enjoy this selection with beef tenderloin accompanied by braised swiss chard.

TECHNICAL NOTES
Winemaker: Susan Reed
Appellation: Sonoma County
Varieties: Merlot 70%, Cabernet Sauvignon 30%
Harvested: August 20th through September 15th, 2004
Alcohol: 14.4%
Acidity: 3.31 pH, 7.27 g/L TA
Bottled: June 8, 2006
Cases Produced: 396

PAST VINTAGES
2003 Encounter - Sonoma County, Proprietary Red Wine
2002 Encounter - Sonoma County, Proprietary Red Wine
2001 Encounter - Sonoma County, Red Table Wine
2000 Encounter - Sonoma County, Red Table Wine
1999 Encounter - Sonoma County, Red Table Wine