2023 Linden Vineyards Avenius Red
STYLE
Avenius Vineyard is Linden’s coolest site. The high elevation ripens grapes slowly preserving acidity. There is a combination of density and lift in this wine that can only be achieved on a cool site in a dry growing season. The high portion of Merlot gives this vintage finesse. This wine has elegance and persistence. The finish is framed by freshness more than tannins.
FOOD PAIRINGS
Pair with northern Italian cuisine such as simple pasta dishes or risotto. Braised chicken thighs with olives is a personal favorite.
VINEYARD
Avenius Vineyard (100%), Warren Co. is just 1 mile north of Linden Vineyards at 1,300 feet elevation with an eastern slope. Soils are primarily greenstone. Cabernet Sauvignon was planted in 1998, Petit Verdot in 1999 and Merlot was planted in 2007 and 2012. This cool site retains red fruit character and a strong acidity that rewards aging.
VINTAGE
Bud break was a week early (April 12 for Chardonnay). It was the summer of smoke haze coming from Canadian fires. The smoke was too early in the season to affect the crop, but there were several days when working outside was too hazardous (smoke inhalation). The drought continued into July. The vines stopped their vegetative cycle. Berries were noticeably smaller than normal and young vines were showing hydric stress. Veraison was early and quick. Cane lignification was the earliest ever observed.
Red harvest started early with Merlot on September 18. Chemistry and flavors were good, but tannin development lagged. A late September rain paused Cabernet Sauvignon harvest, but by then it was quite cool, so the clusters remained healthy with no rot. Petit Verdot was the last red to be picked on October 9.
The dry, cool 2023 growing season produced powerful, concentrated wines. It was an easy vintage in terms of managing the vines and making harvest decisions.
WINEMAKING
Sorted and destemmed. Fermented warm with gentle pump-overs early and then punch downs once the cap formed. Pressing took place after about 20 to 28 days. The wine was aged for 12 months in once used French oak barrels and some new oak. 63% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot. 2,082 bottles produced. Bottled in February 2025. Alcohol 13.3%. Drink 2026 through 2036, or longer. Released September 2026.
Linden Vineyards / Our Wines / 2023 Vintage | 2023 Linden Vineyards Avenius Red