Reserve Claret

2021
Reserve Claret

Concentrated dark garnet in the glass, the 2021 Matthews Reserve Claret is luxurious, round, and fresh. Decadent berry reduction, cedar spice, and rose petal aromatics combine with graphite and ripe plum accents. The expressive palate opens with Amarena cherry, boysenberry, cocoa powder, crushed rock, and hints of clove. The full-bodied mouthfeel is sexy with sweet, palate coating tannins and dramatic tension. Finishing long with loads of anise, sage, and cassis this wine will be very long-lived.

Buy Now $145

Vintages

Labeled Appellation

Columbia Valley

Varietal(s)

70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc

Vinification

Aged 21 months in 100% new French oak

Alcohol

15.1%

Cases Produced

490

Expert Reviews & Scores

  • Jeremy Young, International Wine Report

    97 / 100

    My favorite of the 2021 Matthews lineup, the gorgeous, decadent, and brooding 2021 Reserve Claret blends 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc and is cellared in 100% new French oak for 21 months. A deep, focused, ruby-purple core is in contrast with its neon ruby rim and exhibits what is to come. Bountiful aromas of black and red fruits meld with notes of dried rose, red plum skins, black currants, cedary herbs, and grated clove that sits perfectly on the back palate. Perfectly balanced between the crunchy, sweet tannins and elevated acidity, it’s very polished with a near-perfect structure. Enjoy this one in a couple of years and then over the next 15 or more. 490 cases crafted. $195 2025-2040

    Anthony Mueller, Robert Parker

    96 / 100

    ... the 2021 Reserve Claret... stands out as a masterclass among its peers. The wines from Matthews in 2021 elevate above and beyond their previous quality levels, showcasing a remarkable improvement. The wine bursts with juicy, firm and fresh characteristics, displaying layers of complexity that culminate in a long, succulent finish. Bravo. Don't miss the chance to experience this extraordinary American Claret, produced in limited quantities with only 5,880 bottles. It was aged for 21 months in 100% new French Oak, contributing to its depth and sophistication. Give this a try; you won't be disappointed

    Owen Bargreenowenbargreen.com

    96 / 100

    The incredible 2021 Matthews ‘Reserve’ Claret is mainly comprised of Cabernet Sauvignon (70%). The wine is a thrilling joyride of texture, weight and bright underlying tension. The palate shows opulent creme de violette, espresso and garrigue notes that combine with boysenberry pie and shades of scorched earth. The underlying structure seems to match perfectly with the weight, as this beauty really needs an hour or two in the decanter if enjoying in its full-bodied youth. Drink 2023-2038

  • Eric Guido, Vinous Media

    95 / 100

    Sweet sage, cedary spice and dried black cherries flow as the 2021 Claret Reserve come to life in the glass. Pure and elegant, the 2021 is savory and polished, with depths of mineral-tinged red and black fruits. It takes on a pleasantly bitter tinge toward the close, with a dusting of cocoa combined with residual acidity that creates a push-and-pull of tension. This finishes quite potent, with a balanced structure that will guarantee over a decade of positive evolution. This is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon 20% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. It saw 100% new French oak for 21 months.

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