Wine Facts

Vintage: 2017
Appellation: Suisun Valley, California
Release Date: January 2020
Varietal: 100% from 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon grapes
Ageing: 18 months in a mix of small French, East European barrels
Brix at Harvest: 24.2
Alcohol: 13.9%
PH: 3.62
TA (Total Acidity): 5.9 g/L
Cases Produced: 362
UPC CODE: 865918000241

Harvest and Crush Notes

The 2017 grape growing season was characterized by uneven yet favorable weather. Higher than normal rainfall in the spring helped the vines develop healthy shoots, rich foliage and an ideal grape onset. A heat wave in August reduced berry growth and accelerated sugar build-up. Almost ideal weather during the last three weeks of September balanced sugars and tannins. Suisun Valley Cabernet Sauvignon reached ideal maturity at the end of the month. Yields were lower than average but the grapes were homogeneous and rich in color and tannins. Our grapes were harvested on September 26, free of raisins, when flavors and aromas were peaking and sugars reached 24.2 Brix. Fermentation yielded a wine rich in fruit, with intense ruby red color and well-balanced acidity and flavors. The wine was aged for 18 months in a mix of French and European barrels and after bottling rested for 6 months.

Winemaker’s Notes

The Mankas II 2017 vintage is dominated by the power of the fruit and a refined complexity. Aromas of red and black fruit pleasantly fill the refined nose of the wine to reveal more subtle tones of vanilla, cloves and eucalyptus. An ideal balance between fruit, acidity and tannins gives way to an outstanding palate and a lingering pleasant finish. The subtle texture and finish partner remarkably well with simple and refined foods without overpowering their taste.