Tasting Notes

94
Vinous Eric Guido - 01 Oct 23
The 2009 Red Wine Reserve is starting to show its maturity, yet pleasurably so, with a blend of plum and cherry sauce accentuated by tobacco and cloves. This is unexpectedly fresh yet still massive, with juicy red and black fruits that take on a balsamic tinge toward the close. Chalky minerals and mint notes linger as the 2009 finishes spicy and extended with a subtle sour cherry tinge. This is a racy Red Wine Reserve from a challenging vintage, with 20-22 days over 100 degrees and difficult canopies resulting from a large amount of spring rain. Ultimately, the vintage was halted on October 9th and 10th when a killing frost moved into the region, forcing an early harvest.
Drinking Date: 2024 - 2032
United States Vineyard Fine Wine

United States

The U.S. is a top wine producer, with California leading at 90% of production. Napa Valley is famous for powerful Cabernet Sauvignon, while Sonoma shines with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Oregon's Willamette Valley excels in elegant Pinot Noir, and Washington State is known for robust Merlot and Syrah from the Columbia Valley. Notable producers include Robert Mondavi, Opus One, and Stag's Leap in Napa, Domaine Serene in Oregon, and Chateau Ste. Michelle in Washington.