Michel-Schlumberger 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon

Our coveted close-spaced vines comprise half of this 2002 Cabernet blend. They offer clean blackberry and cassis fruit with aromas of cedar, leather, and that distinct Cabernet spice. The mid-palate is generous and finishes with structure from balanced yet ample tannin. Heritage clones and varieties that have become so old that they are novel again, ground this Cabernet in the tradition that identified Bordeaux as truly great wine.

Cabernet Sauvignon is an old variety that has developed many variations over the years. Some of these selections have been blended with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Carmenére to make a wine with enveloping depth and intriguing subtle flavors, more than the sum of its components. They each have outstanding attributes but the blend is a complete wine, seamless and balanced.

Winemaker Tasting Notes:
Enjoy it with any savory meal, Beef, Duck, Cassoulet, even rich-flavored fish with a dark reduced wine sauce. It can brighten a barbeque or compliment a formal meal. It will definitely age well if you want to wait. Aside from the odd curious selection for an informal dinner, to measure development of course, mine will start disappearing in a couple of years.

Technical Notes:

Appellation:	Dry Creek Valley
Blend:	92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot
Harvest Dates:	Sept. 16- Sept. 28, 2002
Fermentation:	19 days on skins
Oak:	20 months in French oak
Bottle Date:	July 2004
Production:	4260 cases