Joullian Carmel Valley Estate 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley
The 2003 Joullian Estate Cabernet Sauvignon has the best combination of richness and balance since the 1997 vintage. "Classic" wines always have a palette that is the mirror image of the nose, and this is immediately obvious with our 2003 Cabernet.
Late, cold spring rains kept soil temperatures cool, which delayed budbreak, and early growth was also slow during a cool May. Cabernet growers were getting nervous until a late September heat wave sped up ripening, and a perfectly dry, warm October lowered the acids and boosted flavors gracefully and predictably. We harvested two days before the onset of the November rains.
Rich, robust, balanced and concentrated — this is Carmel Valley Cabernet at its finest. Note that our new French oak barrels add spice, not overtly woody flavors...3-year air dried stavewood makes the difference. Fermentation with multiple yeast strains boosts aromas, amplifies black fruit/anise flavors, and "texturizes" the ample tannins of the Bordeaux varietals.
Enjoy our marriage of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc now, or after 10-15 years in the bottle.The wine will always remain balanced, fruity, and with ever increasing perfume. |
