Tasting Notes: One of my favorite games is to play blind tasting. Our 2019 Portrait would play well for Ehlers wine lovers. A blend of our four red varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, it showcases the character of each grape and the distinctive terroir we have on our Estate vineyards. Each of the varieties shines and is distinct from each other. Our 2019 Ehlers Estate Portrait Red Blend is deep ruby. Aromas of raspberry, blueberries, Herbs de Provence, and violets. Earthy minerality with forest floor. Concentrated flavors, with a medium to full body and well-balanced tannin structure. Oak flavors of cedar, cigar box, and licorice integrate with the fruit. Long finish with balanced acidity. Ready to drink now. It will age exceptionally well for 10-15 more years. Unfined/Unfiltered.

Vintage: 2019 turned out to be a near-perfect vintage.  With a cold rainy winter and extended rainy season into late spring, we had a couple of weeks delay in flowering and setting.  All the work in the vineyard was tricky due to the rains.  But a warm, late summer helped us to catch up phenologically.  A cooling trend followed the summer that allowed us to hang the fruit longer for more flavor and tannin development.  Cooler nights and mild temperatures during the day helped retain the acidity and aromas of the fruit.
 

Varietal: 51.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16.1% Cabernet Franc, 25.8% Merlot, 6.4% Petit Verdot
Harvest: September - October 2019
Wine Analysis: 14.5 % alcohol / 3.61 pH
Aging: 58% new French Oak, 22 months
Appellation: St. Helena, Napa Valley
Bottling Date: August 2021
Cases Produced: 750 cases
 

Awards and Accolades: 93 Points – James Suckling