2006 Reserve Claret
The 2006 growing season was a long, temperate one that culminated in some of the longest hang times in our history. Harvested in mid-November, our redolent Lower Mountain Top Merlot block (the perennial contributor to our Vintner Select Merlot as well) forms the backbone of this cuvee, comprising 67% of the blend. The balance of the blend is sourced from our Rock Arch, Carolyn’s and Rim Rock blocks of Cabernet Sauvignon, providing the structure to balance the opulent Merlot. The effusive nose reveals ripe black plum, morello cherries and blueberries layered upon spice tones of nutmeg, cocoa and roasted coffee beans. On the palate, the concentrated dark fruit of the attack leads into a sumptuous mid-palate and finishes with very ripe tannins that provide a lingering velvety structure.
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Profile
| Appellation: | Napa/Sonoma |
|---|---|
| Vintage: | 2006 |
| Harvest: | November 2006 |
| Fermentation: | Stainless Steel |
| Cooperage: | French Oak |
| Blend: | 67% Merlot/33% Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Alcohol: | 15.2% |
| Bottling: | December 2008 |
| Production: | 414 cases |
| Release Date: | March 11, 2009 |
| Price: | $125.00 |
- January 25 , 2009 The Wine Advocate, December 2009, Issue 186
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Rating: 96
The sensational 2006 Reserve Claret boasts an opaque purple color in addition to sweet notes of creme de cassis, flowers, charcoal, graphite, and espresso roast. Full-bodied with layers of depth and richness, moderately high but sweet tannins, and a terrific finish, it will be even better with 3-4 years of bottle age, and should last two decades. - December 12, , 2009 Alan Duran’s Periodic Review of Bordeaux, Volume 14
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Rating: 95
It is almost identical in quality to the Cabernet offering. This Reserve displays a garnet ruby/purple edged color, followed by big velvety fragrances of mushroom, blue flower extract, and candied-cassis interwoven with mulberry galore. This is broad shouldered, full-bodied, potent, and flavorful, with an undeniable lingering of flavor and purity. It is built to be cellared extensively due to the broad tannin, potency, and length. One of the top wines of the vintage! Maturity period 2015-2035.