PengWine Humboldt Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2003
Region: Chile
Winery: PengWine
Variety: Blend (Red)

Overview
The five varieties that go into this wine were carefully chosen for the individual characteristics that each could contribute to the final blend. The base, Cabernet Sauvignon, was chosen for its big body,and overall great flavor, the Merlot for its silkiness. The Cabernet Franc was added for its lighter tannins and earlier maturity. Malbec adds earthiness and deep color. Petit Verdot brings structure to the blend. The final product was designed to be enjoyed now and will improve for the next five years.
Vintage Summary
The weather was generous with us in 2003 during the whole growing season. In January we green harvested to reduce yields and help the vines concentrate on just two bunches. The harvest began in late March for the earlier ripening Merlot and ended with the last to ripen Cabernet Sauvignon. All harvesting was done by hand and only whole, ripe bunches were selected.
Vinification
Each of the five free flow juices were placed in individual steel tanks with the skins and fermented at an average temperature of 29ºC. Fermentation averaged three weeks among all varieties, a bit longer than usual due to the high sugar levels achieved during the warm growing season. Eighty-five percent of all the musts were aged in small oak barrels (75% French, 25% American, both medium toast) for 9 to 12 months (longer for the Cabernet and less for the other varieties). Fifty percent of the barrels were new, first use and 50% were second use.
Tasting Notes
This outstanding wine has a beautiful purple appearance with ruby edges that show some evolution. Each bottle has wonderful layers of aromas including baked apples, toasted hazelnuts, cherries and subtle violets. On the palate the wine exhibits a balanced acidity with round tannins and good fruit character. It explodes with creamy hazelnut, chocolate and raspberries flavors. The wine is velvety on the palate with a full body that allows it to carry the alcohol without it being hot in the finish.
Food Pairing Notes
As a classy bird, the Humboldt Reserve is a good match for a juicy sirloin steak or seasoned salmon hot off the grill.
Reviews
"Good Buy" by Wine Enthusiast Magazine, November 2005
Agent Sparkle of the Wine Spies said "...favorite red wine of 2007!"
Tasting Notes - PDF

Posted by thewinery on February 26th, 2008 at 2:26pm | report comment