Le Désir
2002
Vintage
Harvest kicked off 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 2002 Le Désir is velvety and savory. The wine is a dark ruby with a garnet rim. The tannins show a fine-textured silkiness, while the acidity provides excellent lift. In the glass there is black cherry coulis, cocoa nibs, mocha, dried herbs, dried violets and cured meat. The wine begins to unfold after thirty minutes in the decanter, changing and evolving across layers of flavor and complexity. – November 2017
Composition
52.7% Merlot
41.2% Cabernet Franc
5.1% Cabernet Sauvignon
1.0% Malbec
The 2002 Le Desir, a blend of 53% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Malbec, is surprisingly youthful at this stage. Medium to deep garnet in color, it has singular aromas of grilled plums, chanterelles, oolong tea leaves, dried roses, laurel leaves, leather and saline. The palate is seamless and powdery, with a deep core of fruit, bright acidity and a very long, floral finish. It’s very expressive and at an ideal stage for drinking, although it will continue to hold over the next decade in bottle.