Cellar Selection

Ramey 2009 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon

Ramey Wine Cellars crafts outstanding quality wines that are both delicate and magnificent and comes from some of the finest vineyards in Napa and Sonoma.  Ramey selects vineyards for their ability to continue producing the highest quality fruit.  David and his wife Carla founded Ramey Wine Cellars in 1996 after spending time at Matanzas Creek, Chalk Hill, Dominus and Rudd.  Ramey Wine Cellars is located in Healdsburg, in the heart of the California wine country.  Ramey’s varietals are basically Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Syrah.  Today I will review their Napa Cabernet.

The Ramey Wine Cellars 2009 Napa Valley, consists of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon with small amounts of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot, and aged in oak for two years, two-thirds in new barrels (a mixture of French and American).  Opening a bottle, especially a 2009, I would recommend decanting for at least 45 minutes before enjoying this wine.  Pouring a glass I noticed a very deep ruby red and aromas of rich dark berry fruit, with a hint of earthy spice.  On the palate layers of complex powerful flavors pour forth, dark juicy cherries, currants and bits of cocoa.  Wine is well balance with dense tannins and a structure that lingers nicely.  Delicious!  Grab a bottle for around $50, but let it sit in your cellar as time will enhance this beauty.  Stay tuned, I will try some of their other Cabernet offerings, which may be a little difficult obtaining some of their limited production wines on the East Coast.

Cheers!