The 2017 growing season was defined by plentiful rain in the winter followed by mild conditions in spring and summer. To preserve the natural acidity in the grapes, picking began early on September 6th in the Helena Montana vineyard. The wines were resting in barrel prior to the Sonoma County Tubbs fire in October, therefore remained unaffected by any smoke taint. The 2017 Helena Montana wine possesses a deep-purple core with soft violet hues. Reminiscent of a young Bordeaux, aromatic flavors of fresh raspberry, black cherry and dried bay leaf are framed by French oak-derived nuances of toasted cardamom and vanilla. Well-structured and full-bodied, the wine offers brilliant acidity and refined tannins bringing levity, focus and balance to the long, elegant finish.