2023 Calistoga BDX Red Wine Blend 750ml

WINE CLUB

Tasting Notes:

55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Cabernet Franc, 18% Merlot sourced from Calistoga aged on 100% new French Oak

Our “Calistoga BDX” blend is a classic Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.  The fruit is all sourced from the Kenefick Ranch in Calistoga, a property farmed since the early 1970s by Dr. Kenefick.  The vineyard is planted in rhyolitic soils at the base of Mt. St. Helena and produces concentrated fruit displaying ripe, warm fruit characteristics along with fine, balanced tannins.

The vineyard where our BDX Blend is located is the “it” part of Calistoga.  Across from Solage and the new Four Seasons property and next door to Araujo.  This beautiful vineyard location rests on an alluvial fan at the base of the Palisades, the rise high above Calistoga.  Warm days yield to cooling breezes that spill through the Chalk Hill Gap in the evenings.  The wines have a bright acidity on the palate.

This is a truly engaging wine, artfully showcasing the synergy of classic Bordeaux grapes. The initial aromatic wave delivers an impression of succulent red currant and fresh cherry, a bright greeting that soon deepens. This evolves into a richer core of intense blackberry and dark plum, accented by intriguing notes of mocha shavings and a subtle floral lift of candied violets. Underlying these fruit and floral tones are sophisticated mineral hints of pencil lead and a touch of spiced earth, adding further dimension. On the palate, this wine unfolds as a rich mosaic of sensations. It begins with a lively, palate-awakening zest, transitioning smoothly into a velvety and expansive mid-palate. Layers of concentrated dark berry fruit unfold, complemented by nuances of fine cocoa and subtle warming spices. Finishing with a polished tannins and a hint of dried herbs, leading to a persistent and sophisticated finish that resonates with elegance.