What began as an early warm vintage abruptly changed direction with a record setting heat wave over the Labor Day weekend. Normally this causes sugars to jump; strangely the vines shut down, and sugar accumulation ceased for two weeks. This extended hang time allowed acids to soften, and despite our fears, eventually sugars began to rise. This wine is a blend of three vineyards- 52% from Handley Estate Vineyard, 24 % from RSM Estate Vineyard, and 24% from Helluva Vineyard. The resulting wine is more lightly structured than the extracted 2016 vintage and more red fruit driven. Aromas of cola, violets, candy cap mushrooms, and clove. Flavors of red cherries, cranberries, hibiscus, and root beer, with hints of cinnamon and cardamom spices. Long and plush finish with soft tannin's and balanced acidity. Aged for 10 months in all French Oak barrels (25 % new).
