HAVESTED September 27th - October 14th, 2013
VINEYARD
At an elevation of up to 1600 feet overlooking Lake Hennessey on Pritchard Hill is the well-drained rocky red volcanic soil above the cloud and fog line; the ultimate vineyard environment of BRAND.
VINTAGE
Growers and vintners are proclaiming the 2013 vintage close to perfect, even despite the dry winter conditions.
A mild spring, without drenching rains or cold temperatures, allowed the vines to awake from hibernation with bud break as early as late February. In the months that followed, the vines produced healthy canopies and tight clusters with small, uniform berries and thick skins – a perfect scenario.
Veraison was observed in mid-July and sugar levels sped ahead of flavor maturation. Three days of rain in late September slowed sugar accumulation to normal rates, allowing for longer hang times and cultivation of optimum flavor profiles. For this exceptional vintage one will enjoy: rich aromas, powerful concentration, and deep color.
VINIFICATION
Grapes were sorted in the field and winery, and then fermented in small, jacketed stainless steel tanks. Barrel aging occurred in 60% new French Oak for 21 months before the wine was then bottled without fining or filtration.