To the long and growing list of accomplishments at the Duckhorn Wine Company, add this world class Napa Valley Bordeaux blend, easily one of the finest I’ve tasted over the past three decades. It is Cabernet Sauvignon heavy at 73 percent, with a large dollop of Merlot and smaller amounts of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The concept behind this wine is for Duckhorn winemaker Bill Nancarrow to select what he believes are the finest lots from five top Duckhorn Estate vineyards. The result is a gorgeous, layered, beautifully structured Napa Valley red that grabs the senses immediately with a bouquet of cassis, spice and violets. On the palate the flavor profile is a tapestry of red and black fruits, with exceptional persistence. The grape tannins are rich and nicely integrated, although the one off-note to my palate is the subtle presence of drying wood tannins, though that is a minor criticism. On balance this is a stunning Napa Valley red that is a triumph for this iconic winery.
