Sonoma County Claret 2018
Trade Tools
America / Sonoma County
The grapes that go into this Sonoma County Claret are from Certified Sustainable Estate Vineyards and top growers in Sonoma County, a prime region for nurturing Bordeaux varieties such as Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. These grapes thrive in 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, 10% new. The wines are aged 16 months in barrel before final blending and bottling.
Harvest Note
A fairly mild spring and summer with few heat spikes allowed the 2018 harvest to begin right after Labor Day, later than previous years. The consistent growing season and cooler temperatures allowed for slow ripening and deep flavor development resulting in exceptional quality fruit with remarkable balance and brightness.
Tasting Note
Using only classic Bordeaux varietals for our own version of a British-inspired Claret, an elegant, medium-bodied red blend. Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon contribute generous aromas and deep notes of plum, dried cranberry and cherry compote with hints of fennel and clove. The palate opens up with bright notes of cassis, along with date and plum, and then reveals mouth-watering acidity for an enticing finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 50% Merlot, 31% Malbec, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon
APPELLATION: Sonoma County
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: 16 Months, French oak barrels, 10% new
Unique Selling Points
- Made from our Certified Sustainable Estate Vineyards & top growers in Sonoma County
- Gently de-stemmed before cold-soaking for two days to extract optimal color & flavor
- Fruit is fermented in separate lots before being aged in French oak barrels, 10% new
“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.
