Ramey Napa Valley Claret (75cl, 14.5%)

A Bordeaux-style red blend from Ramey Wine Cellars, bottled at 14.5% ABV in a 750ml format. The blend is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah, 9% Malbec, 8% Petit Verdot, 6% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. Malolactic fermentation is completed in barrel, and the wine ages for eighteen months in 20% new French and American oak with monthly bâtonnage. The nose opens with Luxardo cherries and ripe blueberries, then graphite, cedar, pencil shavings and violet, with tobacco leaf and baking spice emerging with air. The palate is full-bodied, with fresh black cherry, dark currant, pressed flowers, turned-soil earthiness, chocolate and coffee-ground undertones, ripe polished tannins and fresh acidity. The finish is long and elegant, with sweet cedar, tobacco, dark plum, minerality and Earl Grey tea character.