D2 2002
Tasting Notes:
Dark regal ruby color. Bright aromas of cocoa, blackberries, fresh currants and black pepper spice. There is a soft plush mouth-feel typical of Merlot with black fruits, cassis and mocha flavors. The finish reveals length and tannins that are ripe and soft.
Varietal Blend:
49% Merlot
36% Cabernet Sauvignon
11% Cabernet Franc
4% Petite Verdot
Vineyard Breakdown:
Klipsun Merlot 11%*
Ciel du Cheval Cabernet Sauvignon 3%*
Portteus Merlot 14%
Portteus Cabernet Sauvignon 12%
Ciel du Cheval Merlot 16%*
Harrison Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 6%
Harrison Hill Merlot 3%
Ciel du Cheval Cabernet Franc 11%*
Boushey Merlot 5%
Klipsun Cabernet Sauvignon 15%*
Ciel du Cheval Petite Verdot 4%*
*60% Red Mountain AVA
Awards & Acclaim:
92 pts. Pierre Rovani, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Vintage 2002)
Undoubtedly the finest D2 to date, the 2002 bursts from the glass with sage-laced dark fruits. It is a blend of 49% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Petit Verdot. Dense, rich, and medium to full-bodied, it is a broad wine with satiny layers of blackberries, spices and brambleberries. An immensely impressive effort, it is big, lush, complex, and friendly. Drink it over the next 10 years.
90 pts. Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar (Vintage 2002)
High-toned, aromatic nose combines raspberry, cassis, graphite and nutty oak, all lifted by a floral nuance. Lush, pliant and generous, with expressive flavors of raspberry, currant and tobacco. Conveys an enticing impression of mid-palate warmth. Finishes with sweet tannins that seem more giving than some past vintages of this bottling.
