Tech Notes
Yield: 2.5 tons per acre
Harvest: September 25-October 21
Numbers @ Harvest: 23.0 Brix, 3.56 pH, 7.5 grams acidity
Barrel Regimen: 50% French; 50% American –half of which were new
Bottling: August 2005; no fining or filtration
Tasting Notes
Release Date: Spring 2007
Mount Eden’s Cabernet stands apart in the vast ocean of overripe and over-priced California Cabernet. Our exposed mountain site yields a wine of specificity and classic proportion. The overlooked qualities of palate cleansing acidity and varietal character are abundant in the 2003, not to mention moderate alcohol.
2003 was a textbook harvest for us. Slow development—in the cool October sun—was key to the success of this rugged, late ripening grape; and our coastal mountaintop produced just that.
A sweet perfume of cassis, black currant and leather abound in the nose leading to an opulent blend of blackberry, anise and roasted herb flavors that are persistent. Comparable in weight and tannins to the great 1994 vintage (which is drinking beautifully now) the 2003 will be able to age another ten years before finding its peak.
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