The perfect balance between power and grace...
When we discovered White Cottage Ranch and tasted their wines, we were wishing we had connected with them sooner. They make wines from 100% Estate fruit grown on their 73-acre property on Howell Mountain. These 24 acres of vineyard are planted between elevations of 1600 and 2000 feet. The result is true mountain Cab, with a perfect balance between power and grace.
The 2009 White Cottage Ranch "Risa" Cabernet is a blend of 87% Cab Sauv, 6% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petite Sirah, which makes it essentially a Bordeaux style blend, with the Petite Sirag taking the place of the more common Petit Verdot. The 2009 Risa is a concentrated, bright ruby color, with a nose that shows classic Cabernet aromas of black currant, tobacco leaf, and green peppercorn. The palate is brighter and more overtly fruity, with blackberry and black cherry joined by spicy, earthy notes. The tannins are silky, with good acidity carrying through on the finish. While the nose shows Cabernet's slightly herbaceous side, the palate should please even those who shy away from this more classic style of Cabernet. The result is a complex, layered wine that will pair with a variety of foods, and at this price is about as great a value as you will ever get for Howell Mountain Cabernet.
Vintage: 2009
Release Date: March 2012
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon 83%, Merlot 10%, Cabernet Franc 4%, Zinfandel 2.5%, Petit Syrah .5%
Appellation: Howell Mountain
Primary Vineyards: White Cottage Ranch, Vineyard blocks 1, 2, 3 & 4
Tons per acre: 2.1
Barrel Program: French Oak, 30% new French Oak
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