Sonoma County Claret 2014
Trade Tools
America / Sonoma County
The grapes that go into our Sonoma County Claret are from our Certified Sustainable Estate Vineyards and top growers in Sonoma County, a prime region for nurturing Bordeaux varietals such as Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. The different varieties thrive in our temperate Sonoma weather and contribute distinctive and individual qualities to the final blend.
All grapes are gently de-stemmed before cold-soaking for two days to extract optimal color and flavor. The fruit is fermented in separate lots, allowing each lot to be individually and distinctly crafted before being aged in French oak barrels, 20% new. The wines are kept 16 months in barrel before final blending and bottling.
Harvest Note
Warm sunny days throughout the spring and summer months set the stage for a spectacular harvest in September 2014. The lack of rain meant that harvest began a little earlier than normal and was short in length, finishing up by the end of October. The temperate days leading up to harvest produced good yields of high quality fruit with concentrated flavors, complex aromatics and excellent structure.
Tasting Note
Claret is the British-inspired name for an elegant red blend of classic Bordeaux varietals, in this case Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. This blend is juicy and expressive with layered aromas of cranberry, cherry cola and currants merging with vibrant flavors of dark red berries and spices. The creamy entry finishes smooth yet structured.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 50% Merlot, 30% Malbec, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
APPELLATION: Sonoma County
ABV: 14.8%
AGING: 16 Months, 100% French Oak
Unique Selling Points
- A classic claret (Bordeaux) blend of up to five different grapes.
- Matured for 16 months in French oak barrels for a complex flavor
“Select grapes grown on Sonoma's finest vineyards, tended for intensity of flavor and aroma, handpicked and sorted to ensure that only the best are fermented and aged in French oak, will yield a wine of both richness and balance.”
Chris Louton, Winemaker
About the Grape
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is adaptable to various growing conditions, and is known for its low yield and late ripeness. It generally produces full-bodied wines with substantial acidity and tannins.
Merlot
Merlot makes plump, succulent wines to drink young or opulently massive wines for aging. Has silky, blackberry and currant fruit, with spice, earth, tobacco and chocolate notes, and soft tannins.
