| Fermentation and extended maceration were easily accomplished in 29 days (about 8 days of fermentation and the balance extended maceration). After a short period in tank, the four different lots were moved to 100% new French oak barrels from five different tonnelleries. I favor tight grain Chateaux Ferre barrels with medium plus toast, from the forests of Never and Allier. A few of the barrels are the cooper’s choice mixed forest blend of the tightest grain (read the most expansive).
The wine was racked every three months during the first year in barrel and two times after the first 12 months.
During the first year, I created the blend, which is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon from four different vineyard blocks and the balance is Merlot (the smallest vineyard block at Pillar Rock). The wine has not been fined. It was bottled on August 26th 2003.
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