Vintage
2001 is considered a modern classic in the pantheon of California Vintages. Warm temperatures, good crop levels and dry weather conditions led to rich wines with fantastic fruit density. While these wines are uniformly rich, they retain balance and seemed destined for longevity.

Vineyards
Located near Plymouth, CA, at over 2000 ft in elevation, Frank's Vineyard was planted in 1978 under the direction of California fortified wine guru, Andrew Quady. Originally planted to the Portuguese varieties Tinta Cao, Tinta Amarela, and Bastardo, they have since added Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz (aka Tempranillo or Valdepenas). These grapes represent the traditional varieties utilized in Portugal for the great wines of Oporto.

Winemaking
By arresting the fermentation with neutral grape spirits (aka young brandy) the resulting fortified wine retains natural sweetness. The sweetness is balanced by tannin creating a sumptuous and fulfilling fortified wine. We aged the wine in older barrels for more than four years before bottling the wine unfiltered.

Tasting Notes
Always supremely aromatic, our 2001 Port has added complexity from extended time in oak. Ripe plum and blackberry fruit along with black pepper and clove spice coax the nose and coat the palate. This is the perfect wine for a cold winter's night or a block of Stilton. It is ready to drink upon release, but should age effortlessly for another 10-15 years.

TECHNICAL DATA:

Appellation
Amador County

WINEMAKER
Michael Martella

VINEYARDS
100% Frank's Vineyards

Composition: 50% Touriga Nacional, 30% Tinta Roriz
10% Tinta Amarela, 10% Tinta Cão

Finished alcohol: 19.5% ABV
Acid/pH: .57/4.01
Elevation: 2000 ft.
Oak treatment: Older Barrels for over four years
Total production: 280 cases
California suggested retail: $28.00

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