D2 1999
Tasting Notes:
This wine is fruit-forward blackberries with a Merlot spice and violets which starts the impressive aroma. This vintage is a much stouter D2 than some of the previous. There is definite grip and soft ripe tannins that combine with the fleshy forward Merlot flavors. Lots of toast and chocolate in the middle flavors, and mostly gobs of dark fruits and berries.
Varietal Blend:
51% Merlot
38%Cabernet Sauvignon
11% Cabernet Franc
Vineyard Breakdown:
Portteus Cabernet Sauvignon 16.5%
Ciel du Cheval Cabernet Sauvignon 12.5%*
Harrison Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 8%
Klipsun Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 1%*
Klipsun Vineyard Merlot 20%*
Artz Vineyard Cabernet Franc 5%*
Portteus Merlot 14%
Ahtanum Ridge Merlot 8%
Artz Vineyard Merlot 5%*
Harrison Hill Merlot 3%
Ciel Du Cheval Merlot 1%*
Ciel du Cheval Cabernet Franc 5%*v Harrison Hill Cabernet Franc 1%
*Red Mountain Appellation
Awards & Acclaim:
88 pts. Harvey Steiman, Wine Spectator (Vintage 2000)
Shows some restraint, shooting for elegance over power. Features polished texture, currant and black pepper flavors, and a touch of smoke as it all lingers on the finish. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2005.
