|
 The
Season
A warm end to the season quickened the ripening process, increasing
sugars to the perfect level in the vineyard. Harvest was early and
fast. The maturing vineyard's overall production was up slightly
over the first three harvests, although the output was no more than
two tons per acre. The grapes ripened evenly, and were consistent
in character with previous years' fruit - small berry size, flavorful
juice, brilliant ruby color.
The Harvest
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Cabernet Sauvignon 2,000 pounds, picked September 6-8 |
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Merlot 1000 pounds, picked September 6 |
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Cabernet Franc 200 pounds, picked September 6 |
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24 Average Degrees Brix. |
Fermentation
The varietal lots were kept separate during fermentation. All the
juice received 10 days of skin contact; the Cabernet went into tanks
with pump over throughout the process. The Merlot went into small
open-top fermenters utilizing the punch down technique. Juices were
fermented with Bordeaux "Pasteur" Red Yeast for a steady, moderate
fermentation and a dependable finish.
Production & Cellaring
288 gallons / 120 cases total production.
After crushing and fermentation, the wine went into barrels in late
September and aged by separate varietal lots for three months until
initial blending at the first racking in December. Barrels were
new and neutral Nevers French oak with a medium toast. The wine
spent 22 months in barrels, during which time it was racked once
more for clarity.
Packaging
The total presentation enhances the elegance of the wine. Smoky-hued
Antique Green bottles with applied acrylic labeling are individually
tissue wrapped. For case orders, the wine is packaged in branded
wooden boxes with sliding lids.
Availability
Only 120 cases of the 1997 Reflections Meritage were produced. Originally
released at $40 per bottle, this vintage is now available in very
limited quantities for $65 per bottle. Case orders receive a 10%
case discount.
Please ask about shipping. Shipping is available for wooden boxes
at an increased cost.
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