Superiore is Montemaggiore's own special blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Every year the exact blend may vary slightly—the 2002 Superiore is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Syrah—but the synergy between our two varietals always produces a wonderful, age-worthy wine.

In the Vineyard

Located on a mountainside high above Dry Creek Valley, the rocky soils of our estate Cabernet and Syrah vineyards produce intensely flavored grapes at naturally low yields. Using sustainable practices and organic materials, we farm our vineyards without chemical fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides.

In 2002, the weather was fairly moderate and our crop would have been abundant, but we thinned about 25-30% of the fruit to enhance the flavor characteristics. Our inaugural vintage, 2002 has proven to be a great year at Montemaggiore.

In the Winery

The Cabernet and Syrah were fermented separately for this wine, and then in early 2003, we chose the specific barrels for the final blend. Our goal for the blending was to have the intense fruit of the Syrah "brighten" the sternness of the Cabernet, and the big tannins of the Cabernet give the Syrah more structure.

On your Palate

What should you expect from this wine?

• A deep, dark, and almost impenetrable purple-ruby color

• A subtle aroma of berries, spices, and pepper underpinned by firm tannins

• Great intensity and depth of flavor with a long, smooth finish

Varietal Blend 75% Cabernet 25% Syrah Avg Sugar at Harvest 25.7° Brix Alcohol 14.8% Cases Produced 435 Optimum consumption 2005-2015

Cooperage 100% French Percentage new oak 56% Harvest Date Sept & Oct 2002 Bottling Date January 2005 Suggested Retail Price $40/bottle

Would you like to try it?
Please click here to purchase the 2002 Montemaggiore Superiore!

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