2007 Colgin Cellars IX Estate Red

An exceptional growing season from beginning to end is the definition of the 2007 vintage. A mild spring followed a drier winter, yet several light rains helped the vines cope with the mild drought. A moderate summer with cooler than average temperatures allowed for slow, even development of the berries. A short heat wave around Labor Day resulted in our earliest picking of Merlot ever, but cooler weather soon followed, allowing the Cabernet to hang on the vine longer. The additional time on the vine resulted in riper tannins, lower sugar levels, and great natural acidity.

As the vines become older with each passing year, the wines become more thought-provoking. Through attentive tending of the vines and thoughtful decisions on the time of harvest, the best of IX Estate was harvested and has the attention to detail combined with a stellar growing season. The 2007 "IX Estate" showcases terroir driven flavors of crushed rock, wet graphite, bay leaf, and dried spice. The 2007 is dense, expressive, and alluring. Patience will be greatly rewarded as the structure and natural acidity will allow the vine to age thirty years or more.