Girard Artistry 2010
Wanting something nice for the weekend to sit and enjoy, powerful, but not as big as a 100% Cab, but has some finesse, I found this little Gem from Girard Winery, their Artistry 2010 which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (58%), Merlot (17%), Cabernet Franc (11%), Malbec (8%) and Petit Verdot (6%), a Bordeaux style blend (five permitted red Bordeaux grapes). Girard’s Napa roots go back about 30 years ago, about the time Napa was getting world accolades as a premier wine growing region, and they have become a fine producer of quality wines. Since about 2000, Pat Roney, a longtime California vintner (Sonoma wineries Ch. St. Jean & Kunde) purchased the winery. Roney has continued to make outstanding Cabernet’s and Chardonnay’s and now he has been expanding his offerings with Zinfandel and Petite Sirah varietals. I have not tried any of Roney’s newer offerings yet, but I look forward to commenting about them in a future post.
Opening the 2010 Artistry, and after decanting for 45 minutes, I noticed aromas of cherries, dried fruit and berries with a hint of spice. I tasted a good balanced wine that incorporated its smooth tannins well. A lingering finish with a nice touch of oak flavors made this a perfect choice for enjoyment. I wish I had a few more bottles of Artistry to set aside as this wine will continue to develop over the next 5+ years. The production of this wine is about 6,000 cases, around $45, and a great value, if you are lucky to get the 2010 vintage. The 2011 vintage is also beginning to become available and I look forward to try that vintage and make some comparisons in a future post. I might just buy a few bottles and wait a few years as the Girard Winery produces some outstanding wines.
Cheers!