Production Notes

2004 Clark-Claudon Estate Cabernet

Leading Our Second Decade of Exceptional Terroir Driven Wines

At Clark-Claudon Vineyards the 2004 vintage was a convergence of season, terroir and raising the bar; leading to a classically beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon. Place and commitment to excellence again made the difference in 2004. It was a condensed growing season with early bud break, warm days, cool nights and one challenging heat spike. The result was a small harvest of intense, flavor packed fruit. Hence, the 2004 vintage, from an unusual, but exceptional year, is making Cabernet enthusiasts smile.

VINEYARD NOTES

Clark-Claudon Vineyards contains multiple exposures that translate into a broad range of Cabernet Sauvignon fruit expression. The highest portions of our mountain estate yield rich, deeply-colored Cabernet with impressive tannins. The lower portions enjoy more shade where vines thrive in deeper soils producing gentle and perfumed wines. As a result, we can play to the strengths of each vintage and build complexity in the blending process. This proved to be essential in 2004. Our commitment to excellence meant excluding the Cabernet Sauvignon lots from the highest elevations where the vines were exposed during the October heat spike. The middle and lower parcels of our estate were harvested nearly 2 weeks later under perfect ripening conditions. The result of this rigorous selection is one of our most elegant, classically beautiful, Estate Cabernets.

TASTING NOTES

Using only 70% of our production our 2004 Estate bottling is a pure varietal expression of Cabernet Sauvignon. A compelling mixture of cassis, violet and cherry dominate the aromas while 24 months of aging in French oak imparts a fine-grained texture and lingering chocolate finish. The hallmark of this vintage is an elegant, silky texture that is imparted from mature vines and gentle handling in the cellar. At the table enjoy this wine with richly flavored beef dishes, lamb, earthy wild mushrooms and savory cheese. Drink now-2020.