2011 Moraga Red
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2011 Moraga Red The 2011 vintage was a needed respite from several years of sub-normal rainfall. With plenty of moisture in the soil, growth at Budbreak was rapid and even. It was unusually chilly during flowering in May and June, causing a slight reduction in crop because of poor pollination and fruit set, resulting in fewer berries with concentrated flavors and phenolics. The cool trend continued, aided by deep coastal overcast in June and July. With the exception of a couple of minor heat spikes, cool weather reigned, setting up conditions for extended hang time and late harvest. September was punctuated by two minor tropical storm systems that produced enough rain to settle the dust without compromising grape quality. Harvest was late and compressed, beginning October 16th, three weeks later than normal, and ending October 21st. Balance and elegance are the first words that come to mind when describing this wine. It is wonderfully complex and perfumed with aromas of cassis, blueberry, blackberry, a hint of red plum, sweet Asian brown spices, cigar box, tobacco leaf, white pepper and minerality expressed as the scent of wet potter’s clay. The entry is rich and round, yielding to very fine-grained, soft tannins as an entrée to flavors of boysenberry syrup, cherry cola, the attractive herbal quality of cassis, and the savory quality of soy. There is a great acid that provides a mouthwatering, lip-smacking finish. The extra ripening time we saw in this vintage rewarded us with a wine of exceptional elegance and grace. We hope that you will feel rewarded when Moraga graces your table.
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