Vintage Notes
An unusually cool, wet winter and spring caused a late start to the growing season, while above average heat in July, and then a drop in temperature mid-August gave way to early rains in October. This did not harm the fruit, though, as a late warming trend dried the vines perfectly, and brought the Cabernet Sauvignon to full maturity in late October.

Winemakers Notes
Our mountain vines are dry farmed in shallow, rocky, low-vigor soil that add impressive depth and concentration of flavor intensity to the wine. A combination of French clones 337 and 338 were selected specifically for Back Forty because of their small berry size and rich tannins. The grapes for Back Forty are hand-harvested, and upon entering the winery, hand-sorted and then gravity fed directly into oak tanks for seven days of cold soaking, then fermented and macerated for 28—35 days on the skins. After primary fermentation, the wine is gravity fed to barrel and aged in the wine caves for 20 months, with an additional 14 months aging in bottle prior to release.

Rhonda's Recipe and Pairing Notes

Back Forty pairs well with roasted, broiled or barbecued red meats such as lamb, beef, pork or veal. Medium and strong-flavored semi-soft, semi-hard, aged or creamy cheeses work well, or pair Back Forty with a dark chocolate dessert for a special treat.