1996 Cabernet Sauvignon, Backus Vineyard
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- Tech Sheet
- Vineyard
Varietal
Cabernet Sauvignon
Blend and Grape Sources
100% estate-grown Backus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Harvest Dates
September 13, 1996
Winemaking Data
Grapes were harvested at an average 24.2° Brix, fermented in stainless steel tanks, then aged 26 months in 100% new French oak barrels. The wine was bottled in February, 1999.
Winemaker Notes
The 1996 vintage was characterized by a challenging growing season until September, when ideal weather finally arrived and created the conditions necessary for fruit to reach desired maturity levels. Still, variability within each vineyard required a rigorous selection process at harvest to cull unwanted fruit, and tonnage was down by about 20%.
Fortunately, our efforts in the vineyard and at the winery paid off and the 1996 Backus Cabernet exhibits surprising depth of color with concentrated, black cherry/cassis and mineral-like aromas that blossom in the glass after brief aeration. This is a rich, dense wine with flavors of black, chewy fruits and ripe, dusty tannins that are the hallmarks of the vineyard.
Fortunately, our efforts in the vineyard and at the winery paid off and the 1996 Backus Cabernet exhibits surprising depth of color with concentrated, black cherry/cassis and mineral-like aromas that blossom in the glass after brief aeration. This is a rich, dense wine with flavors of black, chewy fruits and ripe, dusty tannins that are the hallmarks of the vineyard.