Charbono has a long history in California, but only a small amount remains in plantings, and even less is bottled as a stand-alone variety. Wines like this one may give the remaining growers some relief from the pressure to graft over to more popular varieties. Deep black fruit and subtle spice aromas and a fleshy palate that delivers the promise of the nose with supple tannins and a rich finish that will appeal to a wide range of red wine fans, and it will pair with a range of meats, from the summer grill to the autumn oven. Nicely done! A Platinum Award winner at the 2015 Critics Challenge International Wine Competition.
J. McClelland, Napa Valley (California) Charbono 2012
By Rich Cook