Sonoma County Claret 2015
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 varieties such as Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. These grapes thrive in our temperate Sonoma weather and rocky soils, each contributing 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. Before final blending, the wines are kept 16 months in barrel.
Harvest Note
2015 brought an early and light harvest that began on August 10, the earliest date in St. Francis’ history. The year started out very warm and dry but then cool, damp weather in May hampered fruit set. Though the result was smaller, looser clusters on the vine, the warm and consistent summer that followed produced high quality fruit with exceptional aromatics and concentrated flavors.
Tasting Note
Claret is the British-inspired name for an elegant red blend of classic Bordeaux varietals, in this case Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and a touchof Petit Verdot. This expresssive blend shows off flavors and aromas of cherry compote, dark red berries and warm baking spices. The silky entry finishes smooth yet structured.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 52% Merlot, 26% Malbec, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot
APPELLATION: Sonoma County
PH: 3.78
ACIDITY: 0.53 g/l
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.
