La Joie
2000
Vintage
An average winter and dry spring made for an early budbreak in March. Late spring and summer weather patterns shifted between periods of cool weather with light rains, and scattered streaks of hot weather. The periods of cool weather led to a long bloom while the heat waves that followed helped kick-start even grape development. Overall, the weather was unusual and inconsistent throughout the growing season. The 2000s are ready to be opened and enjoyed now. Harvest took place September 6th through October 6th.
– Pierre Seillan, Vigneron
Notes
Clearly superb fruit with nice grip and structure; a certain weight and intensity of flavor but without heaviness or overpowering density. The purity of the fruit of La Joie is exceptional, velvety – and yet it maintains its dark fruit.
Composition
72% Cabernet Sauvignon
19% Merlot
9% Cabernet Franc
Full, bright ruby. Aromas of blackcurrant, espresso and spice, lifted by a perfumed violet component. Silky and compellingly sweet; may not be as fat as the ‘99, but this is extremely stylish and aromatic, thanks to the addition of the cabernet franc. Wonderfully delineated and vibrant in the mouth. Finishes extremely long and subtle, with thoroughly suave tannins. The Vérité wines appear destined to become California collectibles.