2013 Home Ranch Henry’s Blend
It is extremely rare to have back to back perfect vintages but 2013 is proving to be just that: perfection. What started out as a normal spring bud break was followed by a moderate, if not ideal growing season. Optimal conditions for ripening resulted in an almost perfect development of flavor, sugar, acid, and structure. The harvest season began slightly early but with perfect fall conditions it was compact and uniform. The season allowed for an almost clockwork style of harvest.
Cases produced: 2,126 (6 packs)
Tasting Room Retail price: $54
Appellation: Alexander Valley
Winemaking
The 2013 Henry’s Blend is a Bordeaux style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petite Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, the classic five varieties of Bordeaux. The blend for 2013 was 35% Cabernet Sauvignon from our Cloverdale and Home Ranch vineyards, 34% Merlot from our Geyserville Ranch vineyards with 13% Petite Verdot and Cabernet Franc each and 5% Malbec all coming from blocks near the winery at our Home Ranch vineyards. Each variety was fermented separately in small open top vessels. The fermentations were done using a unique cap irrigation device that brings in air as the free-run wine is being circulated over the cap during the peak of fermentation. This technique ensures the binding of tannins with the color compounds found in the grapes as well as maximizing proper yeast cell health and viability.
Alcohol: 13.7 percent by volume
TA: 6.9 g/l
pH: 3.48
Tasting Notes
Aromatically deep, rich and inviting; this wine has a silky smooth texture which is reminiscent of a right bank Bordeaux. Blueberries and currants dominate the palate, while the soft tannins linger on the finish. The 2013 Henry’s Blend is drinking beautifully now but has the intensity, tannins and balanced acidity to last and continue to develop for the next 5-7 years.
