2019Claret
2019Claret
The 2019 Matthews Claret comes from several small vineyard parcels within three AVAs: Royal Slope, Columbia Valley, and Red Mountain. Harvested by hand in the early fall mornings 2019, it was hand-sorted and fermented in the winery using both concrete and stainless-steel tanks. The free-run wine was cellared in French oak for 21 months. Evaluated over 40 times by the winemaking team, only 67 barrels were ultimately selected to be blended, and finally bottled in July 2021.
Mixed with currants and black tea, with muddled ripe strawberry and fresh raspberry puree. Swirling adds spice, sweetness, vanilla bean, and an inviting note of fresh berries. The palate is open, with ripe tannins and a mouthwatering finish. Already exciting while still being accessible. A blend that builds on the Clarets that have come before and shows a bit of where the wine will head in vintages to come.
46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot
Awards & Accolades
"Aromas of plum, black cherry and redcurrant. Full-bodied with silky tannins. Bright acidity helps to drive the palate with lots of juicy black fruit and herbal complexity. Lingering finish. 46% cabernet sauvignon, 40% merlot, 10% cabernet franc, 2% malbec and 2% petit verdot. Drink or hold."
- 92 points, James Suckling, jamessuckling.com
AVAs
Royal Slope
Royal Slope
- Designated
- 2020
- Vineyards
- 1,900 acres (768 hectares)
- Top Varieties
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc
- Average Annual Precipitation
- 6-8 inches
- Soil
- Sandy loam, soil
- Average Vine Age
- 14yrs
