Claret

2012
Claret

Sappy currants, plum skin and dark spices. The nose is rich but fresh with notes of dried red berries mixed with blackberry and plum jam. The palate has volume but shows good density and has more of a Cabernet driven tannin profile, giving the wine great composure and balance.

Vintages

Varietal(s)

54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cab Franc, 10% Merlot, 5% Syrah, 3% Malbec, 3% Petit Verdot

Vinification

Fermented in 40% new French oak and 60% used French oak

Alcohol

14.5%

Cases Produced

1886

Expert Reviews & Scores

Harvey Steinman, Wine Spectator

92 / 100

Generous, velvety and nicely focused to deliver juicy plum, currant and cherry flavors against a layer of nubby tannins, the finish persisting with impressive length. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2022. 1,886 cases made.

Sean Sullivan, Wine Enthusiast

93 / 100

This wine is 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, 5% Syrah, 3% Malbec and 3% Petit Verdot. It displays fruit-forward aromas of blackberry seed, plum, asphalt and spice. The flavors are dense, focused and layered, showing depth, purity and texture.

Jeb Dunnuck, The Wine Advocate

90 / 100

A step back from the 2013, the 2012 Claret (54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot and the rest Syrah, Malbec and Petit Verdot) is still outstanding, with lots of chocolaty dark fruits, bitter herbs, wood smoke and tobacco notes all emerging from the glass. Full-bodied, bright, focused and with notable acidity, it’s slightly extracted, but opens up nicely with time in the glass and will benefit from a year or two in the cellar. It should drink nicely through 2027. Note, this is the last vintage where the blend will include Syrah.

Trade Materials