Directors’ Cut Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Langhorne Creek
Directors’ Cut is Heartland’s most powerful expression of Langhorne Creek. The weight of fruit in this wine showcases how much Langhorne Creek Ben can fit into one bottle. An almost impenetrable core of fruit is seasoned with dark spice like licorice, nutmeg and anise.
VINEYARD
These vineyards are chosen for the consistent intensity and texture of the fruit. They are also notably affected by the The “Lake Doctor” phenomenon, a cool ocean breeze that comes across the nearby and substantial Lake Alexandrina every afternoon and moderates temperatures, bringing them down 30-40 degrees. The overall heat that vineyards see, as a result, in some years is more equivalent to a cool climate region like Alsace, yet the fruit still achieves fantastic, intense ripeness.
WINEMAKING
Only the finest Cabernet vineyards in Langhorne Creek contributed to Directors’ Cut, including Wenzel, Jenkins and Licorice Block. The fruit was harvested at night to retain freshness. Initial skin contact was followed by 7 days of cool fermentation with our Rhône isolate yeast and hand-plunging three times daily. Maturation then occurred in new oak hogsheads (both French and American) for approximately 14 months.
VINTAGE
2012 is a year of exceptional quality. Late September frosts reduced yields between 10 and 40% depending on the vineyard. A long and relatively cool ripening season allowed for full development of the fruit flavors. The wines retain their natural acidity while conveying the full range of fruit flavors and deep colors desired. 2012 is the best vintage in a long time.
TASTING NOTE
The sheer force of fruit in Directors’ Cut Cabernet Sauvignon is as much a testament to the vineyards as the winemaker’s skill. Deep purple color heralds blackcurrant accompanied by ripe red cherry. A mouth coating texture and supple tannin structure create an experience of perfect equilibrium. However, the true character is more easily appreciated in the complex layers of spice; licorice, nutmeg and star anise with mint in the background. The considerable length on the finish confirms the quality and enhances the enjoyment of this fine wine.
Color
Red
Grape Varieties
Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation
Langhorne Creek
Suggested Retail Price
$39