1999 Moraga Red

1999 Moraga Red
Winemaker’s Tasting Notes 

The vintage of 1999 was a perfect example of the dichotomous nature of winegrape growing, an unusually cool spring produced a crop with fewer grape clusters that normal, dramatically reducing the amount of thinning required in the vineyard to achieve proper vine balance. The dearth of quantity, however, was mirrored in the superb quality of the grapes.  The cool spring slid into a cool summer, resulting in what winemakers term long “hang time” with extraordinary flavor and tannin development.

These near-perfect grapes were crafted into an exemplary wine that reflects the unique terroir of Moraga.  The aroma is fresh and vibrant with ripe blueberry and hints of coffee, chocolate, and black pepper and melded with the subtle smokiness of new French oak barrels.  The entry is soft and round.  Elegantly structured, the mid-palate is brimming with briary blackberry and boysenberry jam.  The finish is rich, persistent and juicy, imploring you to have another sip.

The entire team at Moraga hopes that this bottled synergy of soil, water and sun brings you joy.

Scott Rich, Winemaker