The 2000 vintage offered a fairly wet spring which brought on an early bud-break, and the weather remained rather cool and wet right up to bloom. With many of our re-plants enjoying the mild temperatures and producing their first true crop, we anticipated a slightly larger harvest than the previous two vintages. Summer days of blistering temperatures in the 100’s appeared as if on schedule in early June and fortunately left just as quickly.

The balance of the growing season progressed with moderate daytime temperatures and cool evenings. Another heat spike in September threatened an early harvest, but we watered patiently and waited for the cooler temperatures which returned in October. It was a long growing season, and with the arrival of more warm weather toward the end of October we were rewarded with intense, ripe mountain fruit and almost 1 ½ tons an acre!

The wines from the 2000 HL Cabernet Sauvignon continue the goal of what winemaker Mike Trujillo calls “stylish representation of classic mountain fruit without the tannin."

“I’m looking for a wine that tastes like a fresh grape,” he adds, “not a tannic, wood driven monster. This vintage is anything but tannic; it is very approachable, almost sexy, with great finesse and balance.” Even with almost 90% new Taransaud and Nadalie French oak and over 14% alcohol, this wine is still elegant, fruit driven and forward without being one-dimensional.

“In the mouth, there is a taste of intense black fruits reflecting the hillside vineyard, with a touch of licorice, spice and cinnamon. I find the 2000 wines comparable to 1996, with a soft entry, concentrated elegance and great varietal character. Similarly, time in bottle will help the balance; already I can taste the silky qualities of this wine. Like the 1996 vintage, it should become even more balanced as it matures, so make sure to give it a few years in your cellar.” And make sure to enjoy it with friends!