Animo - Cabernet Sauvignon Vertical Pack (2011,2013,2014) VV

Tasting notes

This limited edition vertical pack of Animo offers 2 bottles of each vintage.
2011: The deep crimson boasts beautiful red cherry aromas, layers of dark fruit flavors framed with sculpted mountain tannins, and a long finish with nuances of coffee and vanilla.

2013: The wine shows incredible length and beauty with deep and voluminous layers. Heady aromas of blackberries, crushed pecans and cocoa nibs are met with fine and polished tannins which exemplify the beauty of this vintage.

2014: Aromas of blackberries, walnuts and light chocolate. Full-bodied, tight and beautiful. Fine and polished tannins. Fabulous length and beauty.

Description

The Animo vineyard is located high atop Atlas Peak between 1,270-1,350 feet on 15 acres of rocky, volcanic soil. The property sits on the edge of a steep canyon overlooking Foss Valley and was purchased and planted by the Michael Mondavi family in 1999. The vineyard was named by Michael’s daughter, Dina, who upon seeing the land, expressed that the site had “animo”, an Italian word meaning spirit or soul. The Cabernet Sauvignon vines at Animo are of the Clone 4 variety planted on 110R rootstock, producing structured fruit with ample tannins and acid to balance the concentrated dark fruit flavor.

Vinification

After the grapes were hand-harvested, de-stemmed and crushed, the juice cold soaked for four days prior to fermentation in stainless steel. Aeration and cap management is handled though a series of punch-downs and pump-overs for color and tannin extraction. Upon completion of fermentation, the lots macerate on the skins for 28-35 days before being pressed off. The wine is barrel aged in 87% new French oak for 20 months before bottling.

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