Tasting Notes: The 2017 Ehlers Estate Portrait is a special red blend of the 4 Bordeaux varietals we have planted at the Estate. The wine is showing deep layers of garnet color. With only 50% Cabernet Sauvignon to give structure to the wine, the big personalities of the Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot really shine in this blend. Aromas of red berries, fig compote, ripe strawberries, cassis, and violet flowers follow aromas of vanilla, mocha, and licorice. Long and balanced, the mouthfeel is rich but with silky tannins. Full finish with a long mineral post taste. Balanced acidity promises good aging potential to the wine. Ready to drink now, but it will age extremely well for 15-20 more years.

Vintage Notes: 2017 began with abundant rainfall, followed by a mild Spring resulting in extended flowering with little shatter. A Labor Day weekend heatwave kicked harvest into high gear, then cool weather allowed sugar levels to return to normal. By October 4th, all our grapes were happily fermenting in tanks, most of them already pressed and in barrels starting malolactic fermentation.
 

Varietal: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc, 13% Merlot, 13% Petit Verdot
Harvest: September 11 – 29, 2017
Wine Analysis: 14.5 % alcohol ● 3.62 pH ● 6.6 TA
Appellation: St. Helena, Napa Valley
Bottling Date: August 20, 2019
Cases Produced: 750 cases