Clos Du Val 2011 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
Clos Du Val, French for “small vineyard estate of a small valley,” was founded in 1972 in the now legendary Stags Leap District of Napa Valley by Franco-American entrepreneur John Goelet. After a worldwide search to purchase vineyard properties from which to craft world-class wines, 150 acres in Stags Leap and 180 acres in Carneros were chosen, solidifying Clos Du Val’s iconic stature and formidable place in Napa Valley history. Today, Winemaker Kristy Melton, handcrafts wines to reflect the classic style, finesse and grace Clos Du Val is known for. The Three Graces, Splendor, Mirth and Joy have adorned Clos Du Val’s labels since 1972 (above photo from their website). These mythical daughters of Zeus were said to preside over Olympian banquets and celebrations, spreading good cheer and raising a glass to the prosperity, happiness, health and good fortune of all.
The 2011 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, 2.5% Petit Verdot and 0.5% Petite Sirah. The wine is aged for 18 months in French oak (25% new). Pouring a glass, which I recommend decanting, I notice a deep ruby color with aromas of dark fruit, mostly blackberries and black cherries. The palate showed a young wine full of rich fruit with spicy notes. This full bodied wine was clean and well balanced, with noticeable tannins, a touch toasty, although time in the bottle should help. The finish was about medium in length and had an interesting earthy sweet spice ending. An overall great value for this Napa offering. I will look to acquire some of their limited release and reserve wines and comment in the future.
Cheers!
