Tasting
Notes:
Our 2005 Beaulieu Vineyard® Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon expresses velvety layers of cherry, plum, rose and chocolate
captured from vineyards throughout this renowned valley. Toasty oak from barrel
aging adds warmth to the red fruit aromas and lingers on the palate. We
captured the complexity of Napa Valley terroir by
selecting grapes from several different regions known for distinctive Cabernet
Sauvignon, then used the artistry of blending to create a beautifully balanced
wine. Enjoy this Cabernet Sauvignon with steak grilled over grape canes or
seared beef tenderloin with whole grain mustard.
After the grapes were destemmed and crushed, we
fermented the must in stainless steel tanks until dry. We then pressed the
wines and transferred them to American, French and Hungarian oak barrels to
achieve an array of oak spices. Winemaker Jeffrey Stambor
selectively blended the vineyard-lots together to create balance, structure and
graceful style.
Vineyard
Notes:
The
diversity of soils and microclimates found in Napa Valley, as well as clones
and cultivation techniques, contribute to the personalities of each vineyard.
We selected vineyards from the 26-mile-length of the valley, with a focus on
our BV® Rutherford and Calistoga ranches. Napa Valley produces only four
percent of the grapes grown in California, yet it is known world-wide. Summers night fog, rolling up the long, narrow
valley from the San Francisco Bay, keeps grape acid levels high while the sunny days yield ripe, rich
flavors. This wine shows its Napa Valley appellation with vibrant fruit
character and impeccable balance.
Production
Notes:
100%
Napa Valley
Winemaker Notes:
The
2005 vintage provided long hangtime for notably rich Cabernet
Sauvignon character with balanced acidity. Heavy winter rains during vine
dormancy gave way to a dry, mild March. Significant rains returned in April and
May, delaying bloom and berry set. Summer temperatures were desirably mild,
with few heat spikes. Septembers fog and cool temperatures slowed sugar accumulation, and then perfect
conditions arrived in October for a late harvest. We finished picking the
bountiful Cabernet Sauvignon crop in late October, resulting in fully-developed
flavors, without
excessive sugar, and silky mature tannins.