December 1989 was the first rainless December in this century, and only 18 inches of rain had fallen since the previous July. As the month of May began, the season appeared to be headed toward drought. The 4 inches of rain at the end of May saved the vintage. August and September were neither too hot, nor too cool, and allowed the fruit to ripen slowly and fully, with well-balanced acid and mature tannins. Fact Sheet Beginning date of harvest: 09/11/1990 Ending date of harvest: 09/29/1990 Average read more...December 1989 was the first rainless December in this century, and only 18 inches of rain had fallen since the previous July. As the month of May began, the season appeared to be headed toward drought. The 4 inches of rain at the end of May saved the vintage. August and September were neither too hot, nor too cool, and allowed the fruit to ripen slowly and fully, with well-balanced acid and mature tannins. Fact Sheet Beginning date of harvest: 09/11/1990 Ending date of harvest: 09/29/1990 Average days of Cuvaison: 18 days Blend: 83% Cabernet Sauvignon 8% Merlot 7% Cabernet Franc 2% Petit Verdot Barrel regime: 16 months in French oak barrels — hand racked every three months Percentage of new oak: 30% (hide)