In 2009, Mother Nature rewarded us with the kind of growing conditions we dream of. For the third year in a row, rainfall in Napa Valley was only about two-thirds of normal. This proved to be just enough to keep the vines healthy, while significantly reducing vegetative growth and naturally limiting vineyard yields. Grape clusters were fewer and smaller than in an average year, resulting in increased concentration and depth. From start to finish, temperature conditions were unusually cool, with none of the heat spikes that typically characterize summertime in Napa Valley. As a result, the grapes enjoyed an exceptionally long growing season that allowed them to achieve perfect ripeness while retaining remarkable levels of aromatic expression and fruit purity. Taken as a whole, wines from the 2009 vintage are intensely perfumed, with delicious up-front fruit and gorgeously silky tannins. They also show beautiful balance and grace, giving them considerable early appeal and an irresistible charm.