Clos du Bois Marlstone 2005, California

Vintage
Although bud break occurred in late February, the 2005 vintage experienced the longest growing season of this decade and the fruit for this wine received as many as 20 days additional hang time to develop exceptional fl avors and character. Warm temperatures prevailed through March, but then cool, wet weather settled in for April, May, and June. Meticulous crop management and leaf trimming ensured premium clusters and exceptional fruit quality. Summer continued with moderate temperatures, foggy mornings, and no major heat spikes, finishing with perfect ripening conditions. Sunny days and cool nights yielded grapes of optimum ripeness and structure as harvest began.

Winemaking
Erik Olsen chose to de-stem but not crush the grapes before fermentation in stainless steel vats with pump-overs three times per day. The wine remained on the skins for an extended maceration of 20 to 30 days before being moved to barrels. The wine then matured in 100% French oak barrels (87% new) for 18 months before it was bottled.

Winemaker Notes
The 2005 Marlstone is an exceptional vintage, with rich tannins that will develop additional softness and complexity with further bottle age. Deep ruby red in color, this wine is intensely aromatic, with opulent blackberry, black cherry, and cassis aromas intermingled with layers of cedar, cigar box, brown spice, and dark cocoa powder. Flavors echo the complex nose and are enjoyed throughout the smooth, lingering finish.

Pricing

• $44.79 each by the Single bottle = $44.79 Qty: add to cart
• $38.63 each by the Half Case = $231.75 Qty: add to cart
• $38.63 each by the Full case = $463.50 Qty: add to cart