2001 Claret

Palate

Notes of dark cherry, dried fruit & sage finishing with sweet, firm tannins.

Aromas

Cassis syrup, raspberry, plum & French herbs.

Food Pairings

Match with a red meat especially lamb, Daube, and rich cheeses.

Vineyard

Hardscrabble Vineyard (85%), Fauquier Co. on top of the Blue Ridge at 1,300 to 1,400 feet with an eastern to southern slope. Deep, well drained mineral soils give cherry character and good structure. Vine ages from 10 to 17 years.

Glen Manor Vineyard (10%), Warren Co. is on the western slope of the Blue Ridge about 7 miles west of Linden Vineyards at an elevation of 1,100 feet. The deep, fertile soils give roundness. The vines are 7 years old and trained on the French lyre system.

Avenius Vineyard (5%), Warren Co. is just 1 mile north of Linden Vineyards at 1,300 feet contributes good acidity and verve. Vine age is 5 years.

Vintage

A hot dry summer gave way to cooler, but still dry conditions in September and October. Harvest dates between October 10 and 31, 2001.

Winemaking

Warm fermentation and early pressing gives the wine its pretty aromatics and supple texture. Aged in 70% American oak, 30% French oak for 17 months. 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Petit Verdot. 744 cases produced.

2001 Vintage, Red WinesJim Law