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| Agustin Huneeus and Philippe Melka
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Philippe Melka and
Agustin Huneeus, Sr. teamed to combine the lore of old world
winemaking, the advancements of new world technology, and small lots from
Washington State's finest vineyards to craft this exotic Cabernet Sauvignon
based blend.
Tasting Notes: This rich, deeply colored wine offers a broad
spectrum of complex aromas including leather and black cherry interwoven with
hints of spice, earth and a subtle note of licorice. Supple yet firm tannins on
the entry turn rich on the mid-palate to provide a lush mouthfeel across a
lengthy finish.
Vintage: The 2005 Pirouette is a wine that reflects the power
and structure of an exceptional vintage. While spring temperatures were mild,
growing conditions were nearly perfect throughout the summer and fall. Mid-June
temperatures were warm, and the heat persisted throughout July and August.
Temperatures cooled just enough in September to ripen the grapes completely
without rushing physiological maturity resulting in a finished wine with great
intensity and ripe, focused flavor.
Winemaking: Pirouette is a wine made in the vineyards.
Philippe works with growers to keep yields below three tons per acres. At
harvest, grapes are picked at perfect ripeness, and then sorted by hand at the
winery. Only the highest quality clusters are retained for fermentation on the
skins for up to 40 days, producing optimal color and tannin extraction. This
wine was aged 22 months in 75% new oak with a selection of barrels from
Taransaud, St. Martin and Ermitage.
Vineyards: The Columbia Valley is a diverse growing region
providing winemakers with the opportunity to add complexity and dimension to
their wines by drawing from a broad cross-section of vineyards. For the 2005
Pirouette, a selection of outstanding Columbia Valley vineyards (48%) were
chosen for their ripe fruit character; Wahluke Slope (24%) and Red Mountain
(9%) vineyards added ripe tannins and flavors; Horse Heaven Hills vineyards
(14%) including Cabernet Sauvignon from Champoux and Wallula Vineyards
contributed texture and a distinct, earthy note to the wine; and Yakima
Valley's Boushey Vineyard (5%) added an extra layer of dark fruit.
Alcohol: 14.6%
pH: 3.78
TA: 0.58 grams/100ml
Blend:
57% Cabernet Sauvignon
20% Merlot
14% Syrah
5% Malbec
4% Cabernet Franc
Release date: February 2008
Production: 1,693 cases
SOLD OUT
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