Growing Conditions
The unique traits of our Magdalena Vineyard shine through the wines sourced from this site. A beneficial air exchange with Seneca Lake moderates the temperatures, creating a warmer and more protective site in the colder months and a cooling effect throughout the summer. The airflow keeps the vineyard dry, and deep soil provides room for spreading root growth. The lime silt loam soil that the site is celebrated for is crucial to the development of flavor intensity in the grapes.
This property was included in the Dresden purchase that Hermann made in 1998 from the Taylor Wine Co. He began planting the site in 1999, beginning with Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot, and continued to add Gewurztraminer, Lemberger, and Cabernet Franc. This site has proven to be able to ripen and protect varieties that do not thrive in our other vineyard locations. We have incorporated exploratory measures regarding dense vine spacing, and vineyard orientation to open airflow and increase hang time.
Harvest
October 10th, 11th, 28th and 31st
Yield: 2.5 tons per acre
Bottling
September 2021
Winemaking
Indigenous yeast fermentation with a mixture of pumpover and punchdowns throughout fermentation in stainless steel.
Aging
Aged in 500L(25% new, 75% neutral) Hungarian barrels, and one French 225 11 months.
Nose
Extended hang time in our riper sites builds structure and flavor complexity, evidenced in the generous raspberry and plum aroma on our medium-bodied Cabernet Franc.
Palate
On the palate it combines bramble fruit, soft tannins, and a black pepper finish.