Hawkes 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaking Notes:
The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon is a combination of grapes from our Pyramid Vineyard and the upper block of our Red Winery Road Vineyard. The final blend contains six percent Merlot. The vineyards, separated by five miles, were harvested twenty days apart, on October 10 and October 30, respectively. Both lots were pressed at three brix and, unfined, were sent to barrel for 20 months in 40% new, air-dried American oak.

Tasting Notes:
The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon should be very long-lived. At the same time, this wine is more accessible now than 2002 was at the same age. The blending of Cabernet Sauvignon from the two very different vineyards provides improved structure; a remarkably ideal fermentation and increased proportion of Merlot results in smooth tannin, and a remarkably open, lively aroma. Flavor of blackberry, cherry and chocolate abound.

Technical Notes:

Alcohol:	13.8%
Appellation:	Alexander Valley
Sugar at Harvest:	23.8 brix
pH:	3.47
TA:	.65