2009 Reserve Claret
Although 2009 was quite temperate, late October was warm and sunny which allowed our merlot blocks to achieve our desired level of ripeness and intensity. 2009 is the first vintage that we have incorporated a few barrels of a new block of clone 3 merlot (named in honor of our vineyard manager David Orozco) into the claret blend, along with the stalwart Lower Mountain Top merlot (also clone 3) and Rock Arch cabernet sauvignon that have traditionally comprised this cuvée. The results are heavenly, with unctuous notes of red plum, currant, coffee, dark chocolate and wild huckleberry. The texture is all silkiness on the palate, building to a crescendo of concentrated fruit and a velvety tannin structure. An authentic claret, this wine is truly more than the sum of its parts.
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Profile
| Appellation: | Napa/Sonoma |
|---|---|
| Vintage: | 2009 |
| Harvest: | November 2009 |
| Fermentation: | Stainless Steel |
| Cooperage: | French Oak |
| Blend: | 63% Merlot/37% Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Alcohol: | 14.8% |
| Bottling: | September 2011 |
| Production: | 508 cases |
| Release Date: | April 18, 2012 |
| Price: | $130.00 |
- December 2012 Wine Advocate, Issue: December 2012
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Rating: 94+
The Merlot-based 2009 Claret Reserve is gorgeous. Juicy dark cherries, tobacco, smoke and cloves jump out of the glass. The Merlot gives the wine much of its suppleness, while the Cabernet adds the structure and pure mountain tannin. Even with all of its richness, the 2009 remains light on its feet for such a big wine. The2009 boasts striking balance and tons of harmony. The blend is two-thirds Merlot and one-third Cabernet Sauvignon. Naturally, the Claret doesn't have the personality of the estate's variety wines, but it is compelling just the same. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029.