2007 Neal Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Neal 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

February 20, 2008 - While most Napa vineyards in 2005 produced record crops, the majority of our fruit comes from mountain and hillside vineyards that experience wildly different growing conditions. While the valley floor was ‘setting’ a huge crop in the spring, the mountains were a month behind and the resulting bloom weather in those sites was less than ideal. Our crop yields in the hills were close to half of what we hoped for but the resulting quality is perhaps the best yet at Neal Family.

Harvesting took place over a month later than the 2004 season, but maturity and flavors from our organically grown fruit were impressive. Continuing the use of wild yeast fermentations and extended macerations shape the wines at an early stage, giving us ripe, intense character without excessive tannins and alcohol. Barrel aging in our cave for over 22 months concentrates the flavors and refines the tannin profile. Bottling is then decided upon when we taste the developed mouthfeel we are looking for.

This year has the most intense concentration of flavors and aromas to date. Rich, ripe fruit and complexity sum up this Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas and flavors include black cherry, plum, cassis, floral notes, chocolate, black licorice, tea and spice. The generous and velvety tannins allow the fruit and candy flavors, along with an earthy (Rutherford Dust) character, to evolve into a delightful finish that provides great depth to the wine.

Harvest Information Harvest Dates: October 3, 2005 through November 3, 2005 Vineyard Locations: Howell Mountain, Atlas Peak, Mt. Veeder, Rutherford, St. Helena, Coombsville

Cooperage Barrel Aged 22 Months 80% New French Oak Bottled August, 2007

Technical Data 100% Napa Valley 100% Cabernet Sauvignon 100% Organically Grown Grapes Alcohol: 14.6% pH: 3.89 TA: 0.57