Every hillside, every elevation and every aspect offer us a different micro-cru. The pure expression of these unique sites has from the beginning defined our winemaking philosophy.
Growing Conditions
The 2016 growing season proved, once again, the importance of pruning. By adapting our pruning techniques to each micro-cru, after several years of drought, we worked in concert with Mother Nature to produce grapes that would result in elegant, age-worthy wines. While we experienced some heat spikes in July, the temperatures during the summer growing season were moderate with some cooler days in late August. This provided the ideal conditions for slower ripening, resulting in less sugar accumulation and producing good acidity in the grapes. The harvest took place within a two-week period across all four appellations, beginning September 6th in Chalk Hill and ending on September 21st in Alexander Valley. We are very pleased with the 2016 vintage as its sophistication and finesse shine through.
Aging
Aged 17 months in 100% french oak with majority new oak.
Nose
Fragrant aromas of black plums, redcurrants, and dried citrus peel mingle with notes of
leather, crème brûlée, and hints of vanilla bean.
Palate
The flavors on the palate unveil layers of black fruit, toasted cedar, and cassis along with hints of melted dark chocolate, wild thyme, browned butter, and cinnamon. Marked by powdery yet firm tannins and bright acidity, the wine carries its structure with effortless grace. A stony minerality is revealed throughout the elegant, lengthy finish—a signature character of La Muse.
Appearance
Deep garnet-purple colored.