VINTAGE NOTES
A
mild winter was interrupted by a fierce storm in February, which
brought 20 to 30 inches of rain in three days. After the water receded,
the vines, which should have remained dormant for 4 to 6 weeks longer,
sprung to life. One of the earliest budbreaks on record went unscathed
by frost and the vines set a slightly above-average crop. A mild
summer did not waylay ripening, and harvest began in the middle
of August. The wines exhibit lush concentrated fruit flavors.
 WINEMAKING NOTES
"The aroma is deeply complex, imbued with the cedary, dry leaf character
typical of S.L.V. Cabernets. The CASK 23 version of our vineyard's
characteristics presents a higher level of magnitude than that of
the prized S.L.V. from the same vintage. Supple and velvety on the
lips, this wine introduces itself in the mouth as easily and without
effort as breathing. Firm texture, spicy flavor and strength balance
the gentleness of the first impression and bring together, once
more in 1986, the compelling combination described as a ‘velvet
glove surrounding an iron fist.’ The finish is firm, with
a bit of tannin still to find its place within the composition of
the whole palate."
- Warren Winiarski, 10/90
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