Both of the barrels we made in 2009 are now dry (ie., no more sugar left to ferment), and they’ve finished off at 13.8% and 13.98% alcohol. Nice! They’ve both been inoculated for malolactic conversion, and once the acids mellow it’ll be time for them to go to bed for a few months. Up next, barrel tasting in March (ish)….
The barrel of Doctors’ is in a 33% Zebra, and La Encantada is in a 1 Year Old barrel. Part of the decision to go with a 1YO was experimental in nature. The 1YO will impart less new oak characteristics, but will be more subtle overall, and I’m totally fine with subtle. Both barrels are from the Tonnelliere Francois Freres cooperage.
Cheers! ~Brian
Tags: Wine