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The vintage season of 2000 started out on a very good note. Adequate rainfall followed by warm spring weather had the vines off to a good healthy start. Budbreak and bloom occurred at a more usual time than the two previous late years. Full bloom was from the third week of May into early June accompanied by moderate temperatures resulting in good to excellent fruit set in most varieties. The growing season climate followed fairly typical North Coast patterns with moderate temperatures punctuated by several heat blasts, which caused some crop loss. Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris were harvested on schedule two to three weeks ahead of the years 1998-99. Chardonnays followed on target and arrived in good shape. Some of the early Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon sites were harvested in good fashion by mid-September to early October. However, some of the more heavily laden vineyards labored through mid October light rains and cool weather and were not harvested until the fourth week when heavier rains brought a sudden end to this prolonged harvest season. "Pleasantly supple and balanced, with ripe, approachable black cherry, plum and wild berry fruit that has a slight candied edge. Moderate tannins on the finish." -Rated 87, Wine Spectator |
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