2002 Moraga Red

The 2002 vintage began in an unremarkable manner – budbreak in late March, followed by flowering in early June and mild temperatures through most of the growing season.  Normal weather cycles continued as the cabernet and merlot vines began their transition to the ripening phase and the berries started developing color. We began picking the first of the merlot in the third week of September and continued on a slow, but steady pace until the second week in October, when the skies became unseasonably overcast and the weather cooled.  The cool weather brought sugar production to a standstill, but very high-quality, fine-grained tannins continued to slowly develop.  The last grapes were picked November 7^thand the first storm of the season unfolded four hours after we finished crushing.

Concentrated cassis, black cherry preserves, and hints of cigar tobacco and cedar are the primary aroma notes.  The palate is initially soft and approachable, but backed by firm, fine-grained tannins.  A mouthful of rich, spicy black cherry is integrated with black plum and a whisper of dusty minerality.  The finish leaves you with a lingering taste of black cherry and a hint of tobacco.

2002 Moraga Red Wine is neither stereotypical California, nor Old World red.  It is unique in the expression of its origins – ancient uplifted seabed soils and proximity to cool ocean breezes.  We are pleased to share with you a wine or such character and personality