February saw abundant rains, followed by lots of filtered light in spring and early summer. Both bud break and flowering occurred a bit late, but under ideal weather conditions, creating plentiful and even fruit set. Summer brought generous sun during the day and cooler marine influences, virtually uninterrupted by major heat spikes. The relatively mild summer followed by extended fall sunshine and moderate heat created near-ideal conditions for winemakers to allow their fruit to accumulate flavor complexity with gradual increases in sugar levels. Volume is looking great, up 20-30% increase over average crop quantity.

Offering a bright nose of berries and plums with hints of crushed herbs, and wild mushrooms, this full-bodied red blend has a big palate of summer berries and rich cassis, with hints of garrigue wild thyme and dried lavender. The tannins are big and smooth, and rich flavors carry into the long luscious finish.