La Joie
2002
Vintage
Harvest began in Knights Valley with the Merlot, and finished with Cabernet Franc from Alexander Mountain Estate. This season was a bit drier than average; the spring was mild, and the summer was warmer than in 2001 but with the influence of the Pacific Ocean which brings cool nights. The 2002s are drinking beautifully and will continue to evolve beautifully. Harvest took place September 9th through September 23rd.
– Pierre Seillan, Vigneron
Notes
The color on this wine is magnificent; a dark ruby with the purple core of a much younger wine. The fine-textured tannin lends a velvety mouthfeel to the wine, while lively acidity maintains lift and freshness. In the glass, blackberry and blueberry compote, kirsch, dried lilac, worn leather, forest floor, sweet tobacco and ground clove mingle to create layers of evolving flavor. In the decanter this wine continues to change – savory notes and developing fruit character beautifully mingling.
– November 2017
Composition
64.2% Cabernet Sauvignon
28.5% Merlot
7.0% Cabernet Franc
0.3% Malbec
98
Robert Parker, Jr.
Robert Parker Wine Advocate
A spectacular blend … the 2002 La Joie exhibits a sweet, opulent bouquet of charcoal, burning embers, forest floor, blackberries and kirsch. Deep, full-bodied, supple-textured, flamboyant and extroverted, with undeniable purity as well as finesse, it should drink well for another 20-25 years.