2006 Melange De Réves, Temecula Valley

The 2006 growing season was most noted for its considerable heat spells in early summer, resulting in slower production by the vines. A cooling off in late July and early August to near perfect conditions lead to expected yields of superior quality, especially in the red varietals, which had ideal ╥hang time╙ fairly consistent climate during the final six to eight weeks on the vine. Overall, quality was very good, which will yield wines which are complex and well-structured.

Our 2006 Melange de RÉves, modeled after the great wines of France's Rhone Valley, was fermented in small lots in a combination of stainless steel tanks and small open-top fermentation bins. Daily "pump-overs" and "punch-downs" allowed for maximum color and flavor extraction without bitter tannins. After pressing, the wine was transferred to small French oak barrels where it aged for 16 months before blending,resulting in a wine which is soft and approachable in its youth.

The bright fruit flavors and of our 2006 Melange de RÉves make this wine the perfect accompaniment to such foods as aged cheeses, smoked salmon, and light pasta dishes.