Mill Creek 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker Notes:
The grapes for this wine originated 55% from Mill Creek’s estate property in Dry Creek Valley, and 45% from our Kreck Family Vineyards in Alexander Valley. The wine was fermented in a combination of temperature controlled, stainless steel tanks and open top fermentors. The tanks were pumped over twice a day and the fermentors punched down three times each day. After malolactic fermentation and blending, the new wine was racked to 60 gallon French and American oak barrels and aged for 14 months as separate lots. After aging, the wine was blended from individual lots into the finished blend. After a light filtration, the total production of 2051 cases was bottled on January 9th, 2004.

Tasting Notes:
Bursting with aromas of blackberry jam and spice. This wine caresses the palate with layers of fruit and anise and leather. The wine has a dark ruby color and exhibits medium body with moderate tannins. The finish is long and spicy.

Food Pairing Notes:
This wine would pair especially well with hearty red meats, grilled steaks, roasts, and rich Italian pastas. It would also go well with rich, tangy cheeses.

Technical Notes:

Appellation:	Sonoma County, CA (56% Dry Creek Valley, 44% Alexander Valley)
Vineyard:	Estate & Kreck Family
Varietal Content:	55% Dry Creek Cabernet, 31% Alex. Valley Cabernet, 14% Alex. Valley Merlot
Harvest Dates:	September 17 and October 14, 2002.
Alcohol:	13.75%
pH:	3.54
Fermentation:	Stainless Steel & Open Top; 14 months French and American oak barrels
Production:	2051 Cases