The Summer That Wasn’t
Here on the west coast of California we’ve had a cool summer. It happens every so often. I remember the summer of ’73 was cooler, yet. Anyway, we’ve been wondering how this will effect this year’s harvest.
Growers will try to keep their fruit on the vine as long as possible to allow for maximum ripening which results in optimal sugar. Areas like Napa, that are known for fruity, high alcohol wines are already planning to pick grapes at lower brix.
The cabernets from Napa this year will probably be more old world style – more earthy and lower alcohol content. Not a bad thing at all. California will prove it can produce more sophisticated wines with higher acid and more varietal flavors from the smaller fruit.
Usually when we have a cool summer we have a wet winter. Only time will tell. In the meantime, we are looking forward to the 2009 releases, which are said to be exceptional.
“It was a one in 10-year kind of harvest,” said Joe Norman, assistant winemaker at Heitz Wine Cellars in Napa Valley.
“If winegrowers were judicious in their farming practices, it was an ultra premium year for Lodi.” Gary Eberle of Eberle Winery in Paso Robles.
In the meantime, we’re still working on finding good, affordable 2007 cabernets to add to our little collection.
2007 Chappellet “Signature” Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Pushing the limit on what we call “affordable,” this wine is a great value. The kind of wine that gets better as it sits in the glass.
A blend of Cabernet, Malbec, Petiti Verdo, Merlot and Cab Franc. Aromas of chocolate, dark cherry and vanilla, with hints of smoke and spice. Flavors of dark cherry, plum and dark berries, with hints of chocolate and coffee. Decanting or using an aerator is recommended to smooth out the tannins. Long, smooth finish. Will cellar for 10+ years. $39 at K&L
Tags: cabernet, California, Napa
