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94 by Wine Enthusiast! The Barrel Select is something exceptional, produced only occasionally... This 2012 celebrates the deep complexity and richness of a favorite east-facing Carneros hillside site on volcanic soils. Of the nine barrels produced in 2012 from this block, the other eight play a major role in the 2012 blend. A precious 60 gallons were kept separate, aged an extra year in French oak (favorite Saury barrel), bottled unfined and unfiltered. No tricks, no new oak, this is exquisite primary fruit character. 100% Merlot. Winery direct only.
TASTING NOTES: Deep, DARK aromas of cocoa, cassis, layered into the rich black fruits. On your tongue, this is luscious body, very dense and chewy but smooth. Mineral-rich black stonefruit and berries, and the "good bitters"--molasses, bittersweet chocolate and espresso. Finishing with slippery elm, anise, menthol. The mouth-coating structure creates a very long "finish"--it does not quit. We knew it was special in the barrel, some magic definitely happened. I can't believe I made this wine. Dead ringer for a top Grand Cru Bordeaux. A special occasion bottle, this will not disappoint the most serious collector. And all this structure and flavor packed into 13.9% alcohol. Ready to drink now; no decant necessary. But of course, opens up more and more in the glass. Just 22 cases produced.
- HARVESTED: October 2012
Barrel aged 25 months: 100% French, 100% Saury Bottled: December 2014 Alcohol by volume: 13.9% TA: 6.7 pH: 3.53
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