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         THE WINE
ImageThe 2008 growing season started off late with a cool spring, late bloom, but we were fortunate to receive warm summer days which provided good balance to the growing season.  The fall weather was absolutely remarkable! September brought sunshine during the days and cool nights, which persisted through October.  The fruit ripened perfectly with great balance and complex flavors.

We began harvesting the Ayoub Vineyard in mid October, hand picking sections of the vineayrd only when the flavors were fully developed. The vineyard yielded 1.9 Tons/acre.  The clusters were carefully destemmed and fermented as whole berries in small lots.  After an extended maceration of the fruit, the wine was gently pressed and aged in 40% new and 60% older French oak barrels for 11 month.

The 2008 Ayoub is a very aromatic Pinot Noir.  It has gorgeous aromas of strawberries and spiced cherry pie interwined with caramelize sugar, cigar box and a hint of barrel toast.  The succulent palate, has a lush medly of black sherries, ripe strawberries and pomegranate, followed by a blossoming depth of flavors.  It is heightened by bright acidity, has rich earthy tones, along with hints of cocoa, nutmeg and pepper.  The fine tannins and silky texture leads into a layered and lingiring finish.  It will greatly benefit from time in the cellar and has potential to age in the bottle for 10+ years.
400 cases were made.