In late January we enjoyed a series of storms which brought some much needed rain. However, the amount of rain was well below average, leading us into another dry year. During the spring, the Paso Robles AVA experienced a fairly bad frost. Fortunately for us, we did not have much damage. Later during bloom, there was shatter which affected our Cabernet Sauvignon the most. As a result, yields were down considerably.

 

We enjoyed a moderate summer and experienced a significant warm spell in early September, which was beneficial to bring the Syrah and Petite Sirah to full ripeness. This heat spike kicked off the 2008 harvest and we picked some of our early-ripening white grapes; Sauvignon Blanc from our Jardine Vineyard, as well as Verdelho and Vermentino from our Huerhuero Vineyard. These three varieties in addition to Viognier from our Huerhuero Vineyard were blended to create our inaugural vintage of WHITE⁴.

 

The temperatures quickly cooled down, and harvest activities came to a halt. The cooler temperatures in the middle of September were helpful. By slowing down the ripening process, the grapes were able to get more hang time, developing more complexity and balance in the process. A surprisingly early frost in October made us expidite the picking of the Cabernet Sauvignon.

 

Overall, this was an interesting vintage with definite challenges, yet, the wines of 2008 will deliver lots of flavor and ripe tannins. A very enjoyable vintage across the board with cabernets worth aging.