Napa, CA                                                                                 

Scherzo  Rose’ of Cabernet - Napa Valley - 2008

Wine Maker's Notes

Bud Break:                                 April 13, 2008

Veraison:                                    August 8, 2007 (Beginning of skin color change)

Harvest:                                     The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for this wine were hand picked from our Lake Cynthia Vineyard east of the Silverado Trail, just north of the Town of Napa, on September 30, 2008, and early harvest The grapes were picked, delivered to the winery, hand sorted and crushed on the same day.

Weather Notes:                         The 2008 season started with a very dry winter, and a warm early spring resulting in bud break about two weeks earlier than normal. The growing season was marked by warm sunny days and cool nights with virtually no rain from March 15 until harvest (which is quite typical). A significant heat spike in early September and then again late in September led an earlier than usual harvest. However, during the last week in September, while the day-time temperature was above 90 degrees F, the night-time temperatures were in the low 40s and high 30s until harvest resulting in good acidity and a marvelously balanced wine.

Harvest TA:                                .45

Alcohol                                      13.9%

Final Blend:                               100 % Lake Cynthia Cabernet Sauvignon

Cooperage:                                “Neutral” French Oak

Release Date:                            June 2, 2008

Tasting Notes:                          “An exceptional blend of light fruity black cherry, strawberry and raspberry flavors together with a hint of black current that Cabernets are know for, combine with soft, supple tannins and crisp, balanced acidity to provide a unique Rose with clear structure. It is rare to find such a combination of fruit, spice and depth of color in a Rose'. This is a wonderful year-round Rose’ for sipping or for serving with lighter foods.  It, like the 2006 and 2007 vintages, raises the bar for all American Rose’ wines. Said one reviewed, "Unlike many Rose's which are the by-product of a vitner's efforts to drain off juice to concentrate other wine, Kitchak Cellars picks these grapes and makes this wine with the sole purpose of making an exceptional Rose'. A brilliant success. This Rose is their best ever."