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ESTATE
MISSION
Clos LaChance’s mission is to provide our customers with high quality, stylistically consistent wines that represent the characteristics of our Estate Vineyards and the Santa Cruz Mountains. We strive to capitalize on our current and future resources in the vineyards and facility, as well as provide superior value in the ultra-premium wine segment.
VINEYARDS
Fruit for the Estate Cabernet Franc is sourced 100% from the Clos LaChance Estate Vineyard in San Martin. The 150-acre Estate Vineyard was planted in 1999-2000. Nearly 20 varietals were planted, along with 60 separate clones—providing Winemaker Stephen Tebb with a spice-rack of blending wines. Hot sunny days throughout the growing season, coupled with cool ocean breezes in the evenings, allow for increased grape hang-time, and the further development of flavors and complexities. Computerized vineyard maintenance and data recording systems (weather stations, leaf and soil sensors, automated irrigation and fertigation) were also installed onsite, ensuring the highest quality fruit possible.
VINTAGE
Rains in the early spring and summer created vigorous vine growth early on. Harvest started on schedule; however the cool weather slowed things down, with the last grapes coming in around Thanksgiving. Yields were through-the-roof all throughout the state. Clos LaChance’s Winemaker Stephen Tebb ran out of tank space halfway through harvest. Fortunately, the weather cooperated and Stephen literally stored the grapes on the vine for several weeks. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise as the resulting wines are some of the best Clos LaChance has produced.
WINEMAKING
The hand harvested grapes were destemmed to closed top tanks and inoculated with yeast the following day. For the next 8 days the must was pumped over 3 times per day during the height of fermentation. Once dry, the wine was drained and pressed to tank, and barreled down for aging into 10% new French oak and 30% new American oak. It was bottled unfined and unfiltered after 18 months with 2 rackings.
WINEMAKER‘S NOTES
Aromas of dark cherry, and cranberries, with a hint of cedar and fresh herbs. Soft, ripe stone fruits such as plums and cherries on the palate. Finishes with smooth tannins and hints of cassis and star anise. A good choice for those that enjoy the fruit of Cabernet Sauvignon without the heavier characteristics.
Baked Lamb Chops with Tomatoes, Kefta Kabobs, Chicken with Cranberry-Mustard Sauce, Stilton Cheese with Dried Fruits.
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