Dashe Cellars 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon

Vineyard Notes:
This is a classic Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley, quite intense and complex, and at the same time possessing a mouth-coating, velvety, sensuous texture. It is certainly one of our favorite wines from an exceptional hillside vineyard- the Todd Brothers Ranch, in the Geyserville region of Alexander Valley.

Winemaking Notes:
Our Cabernet Sauvignon is a great example of why the winemaking philosophy of Dashe Cellars works for intense red wines. Since we combine both French and American winemaking techniques (both Michael and Anne have worked in top Bordeaux wineries such as Ch. Lafite-Rothschild and Ch. La Dominique, and Michael has worked in Cabernet producers such as Ridge Vineyards and Far Niente) we were able to extract the intensity of flavor and aroma of a California Cabernet Sauvignon but with a complexity, subtlety, and lush texture of a more European wine. It truly is an example of "the iron fist in a velvet glove," showing wonderfully intense Cabernet flavors, along with a perfumed aroma, layers and layers of fruit and spice, and a long, complex finish.

Winemaker Tasting Notes:
Featuring intense flavors of blackberry, cassis, and chocolate, the wine is both complex and balanced. It has great structure and will continue to improve for a minimum of ten years. For best results, decant the wine at least an hour before to allow it to develop aromas and body. This wine will show splendidly at any special occasion, and will be a great addition to any cellar.

Technical Notes:

Varietals:	87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot
Appellation:	Alexander Valley, Sonoma County
Alcohol:	14.1 % by vol.
Time in oak:	15 months
Oak:	100% French oak; 25% new
Production:	253 cases, 750mL
Release date:	April 1, 2005
Optimum time for consumption:	2005-2018