La Joie
2002
Vintage
Harvest began in Knights Valley with the Merlot, and finished with Cabernet Franc from Alexander Mountain Estate. This season was a bit drier than average; the spring was mild, and the summer was warmer than in 2001 but with the influence of the Pacific Ocean which brings cool nights. The 2002s are drinking beautifully and will continue to evolve beautifully. Harvest took place September 9th through September 23rd.
– Pierre Seillan, Vigneron
Notes
The color on this wine is magnificent; a dark ruby with the purple core of a much younger wine. The fine-textured tannin lends a velvety mouthfeel to the wine, while lively acidity maintains lift and freshness. In the glass, blackberry and blueberry compote, kirsch, dried lilac, worn leather, forest floor, sweet tobacco and ground clove mingle to create layers of evolving flavor. In the decanter this wine continues to change – savory notes and developing fruit character beautifully mingling.
– November 2017
Composition
64.2% Cabernet Sauvignon
28.5% Merlot
7.0% Cabernet Franc
0.3% Malbec
A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 1% Malbec, the 2002 La Joie is fully mature and drinking beautifully, with the alluring, savory tones of a well-aged Cabernet: dark berry fruit, shitake mushrooms, coffee grounds, graphite, leather and underbrush. The palate retains a core of dried blackcurrants, while its tannins have softened and integrated, and gentle bursts of acidity carry umami-like flavors of meat drippings, iron and soy sauce. It will continue to provide pleasure over the next decade.