2008 Origin 1.5L

Origin is our chance to create the best blend possible from each vintage. It allows us to use many of the small select lots we make from special sites farmed by Doug Hill and his family all over the Napa Valley. Crops in 2008 were small and intense due to some harsh weather conditions, and blending this wine is always a challenge, as expectations are high, and the lots themselves can have strong voices that do not always want to balance the way one would expect. Doug Hill has planted an interesting clone of Merlot at Beau Terre called “Raucedo,” that has a strong personality and adds structure and muscle to the blend. This is also the first year where we have had our own source for small amounts of Malbec and Petit Verdot. The final blend shimmers and forms complex layers that will grow and improve for years to come. The 2008 Origin tastes young and vigorous, with a dark deep nose swirling with chocolate and vanilla, opening to black cherry and a hint of mint. The palate has classic graceful architecture on a heavy-duty frame, with elderberry and black cherry flavors and a soft cassis finish.