Light winter rains followed by warmer temperatures than normal in the Spring started a nice growing season with a lot of solar radiation with little clouds. April was cooler than normal. Warm May allowed the vines to flower at an even pace, producing small, concentrated berries. Lower temperatures in July slowed the development of flavor and aroma compounds. During the summer, Napa Valley enjoyed many foggy mornings, with lower solar radiation-the signature of the vintage. Harvest was pushed back due to cold September allowing the grapes to settle and extend the hangtime on the vines, producing remarkably clean fruit. Overall, 2001 had excellent weather.

The wine shows a solid structured personality and a powerful expression of the vintage. Full-bodied, it possesses a superb, well integrated refined tannin with an explosion of generous aromas of blackberry, cassis, currant, violet and fresh tobacco. It finishes with lingering black fruit and savory spice. The 2001 Portfolio Limited Edition is a stunning wine and will cellar well for many decades.