Wine Facts

Vintage: 2003
Appellation: Suisun Valley, California
Release Date: September 2004
Varietal: 100% from 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon grapes
Ageing: 6 months in a mix of small French, European and American oak barrels
Brix at Harvest: 26
Alcohol: 13.9%
PH: 3.4
TA (titratable acidity): 5.7 g/l
Cases Produced: 3500
Winemaker: Jef Stebben
UPC CODE: 894390000029

Harvest Notes

2003 was marked by heat spikes at the beginning and towards the end, but generally this was a climatically mild year. Towards the end of September the temperature cooled slightly, giving the grapes extra time on the vine to mature their most subtle flavors. The grapes for the 2003 Mankas were harvested between September 23 and October 9. Our harvest was divided into lots based on the picking date and the geographical location within the vineyard. By using this method we were able to capture the unique flavors of each section of the vineyard at its best. Attention to the malolactic fermentation focused on preserving the complex flavors in the wine. The wines were racked to a fine mix of French, European and American barrels in November.

Winemaker’s Comments

 Our 2003 Mankas offers a lovely balance of oak and complex fruit aromas. Scents of wild berry, black cherry and black currant harmonize with the smooth tannins. Mankas delicate body and big fruit profile lends itself to food without overpowering your meal. It is a great wine to enjoy with fish, pasta, or mild cheese and is a pleasant addition to any picnic or barbecue. This wine helps bring out the pleasure in everyday life.