La Joie
2011
Vintage
This year started out as another great vintage; cool nights, sunny days and low humidity. The 2011 season had late spring rains and flowering, followed by a not-too-hot summer. It was a long growing season, which produced lower alcohols and very balanced fruit with good acidity and great expression of micro-cru distinction. We began picking September 26th with Merlot from Chalk Hill and finished October 19th with Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Mountain Estate.
– Pierre Seillan, Vigneron
Notes
On the nose sweet red and black fruits abound; red and black plum, ripe redcurrant and tart black cherry. Balancing the fruit are elements of pencil lead, pen ink, powdered mushroom, fresh cut herbs and menthol. These notes are all framed with oak elements of powdered cocoa, toast, clove and nutmeg. A subtle, earthy component of freshly turned topsoil underscores the finish.
Composition
74% Cabernet Sauvignon
10% Cabernet Franc
7% Merlot
6% Petit Verdot
3% Malbec
The deep ruby/ plum/ purple color is followed by notes of tobacco leaf, forest floor, blackcurrants, chocolate and vanilla. Medium-bodied with an impressive attack and mid-palate, some hard tannins give the wine an angular aftertaste.