TASTING NOTE
Barrel selected from three distinctive vineyard blocs. A kaleidescope of smoke, cassis, violet and black olive tapenade opens up this complex Cab Franc. Crushed granite, cured meat and black plum comprise the lush and layered palate. Tremendous length and cellar potential.
The 2021 vintage will be long remembered for its ideal conditions. Winter was mild and dry with a late April snowfall delaying bud break ever so slightly. A warm and dry spring, especially during flowering, led to even cluster development. Dry conditions continued in May through the middle of August making it one of the driest summers on record. The warm days stimulated an early veraison that led to wonderful potential ripening for all varietals. Occasional but heavy late August rains were quickly absorbed without any negative impact. Everything was harvested relatively early by Stratus standards with the first Chardonnay for sparkling being picked in late August and the last of the Cabernet Sauvignon in mid-November. Outstanding quality and anticipated yields were achieved this vintage.
