Beringer Knights Valley Alluvium Red 2006
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As has become tradition, Laurie kept all of the lots separate during vinification and aging so that the subtle differences of each individual lot of the vineyard are exhibited. She tasted the lots frequently, closely monitoring fermentations and ensuring a rich, garnet color and silky tannins. The wines were then aged in small French oak barrels (53% new) for 14 months to soften the tannins and add layers of toasty oak, cedar, vanilla and sweet spice. Laurie's careful monitoring and then blending of each of these lots and varietals results in a seamless and utterly unique wine. The final blend is 79% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, and small portions of Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petite Verdot.
"Blending the Alluvium is as rewarding as it is challenging, with a commitment to create an expression of the best red Bordeaux varietals with each vintage. The proprietary Alluvium name pays homage to the alluvial soils of Knights Valley, a vineyard that Beringer has a rich history with, and one that consistently rewards me with wonderful fruit to work with. The 2006 Alluvium is ripe with cassis and cedar aromas, along with hints of cardamom and cocoa. Flavors of sun-ripened cherries, vanilla bean and a lip-smacking blackberry finish make this an instantly enthralling wine." - Laurie Hook, Beringer Vineyards Winemaker
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Wine & Spirits
The black cherry flavors of this Cabernet blend merge into gentle, earthy tannins, finely integrated and savory in the end. It has a silken gloss, generous enough to melt in your mouth with a lamb chop.
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No winery or vineyard more thoroughly embodies the timeless appeal and seductive flavor of Napa Valley than Beringer Vineyards, Napa's benchmark producer since the establishment of the vineyard in 1876.
Now in its third century of crafting classic wines from Napa's finest appellations and vineyards, Beringer today is guided by the inspired partnership of celebrated Winemaster Emeritus Ed Sbragia and Winemaker Laurie Hook. Together, they craft Napa Valley wines that speak eloquently of the rich heritage of the Beringer Vineyard, while offering cutting-edge quality and contemporary elegance. The exquisite wines crafted at the Beringer Vineyards display a single minded dedication and pursuit of excellence instilled by its founder, Jacob Beringer.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
A small and picturesque valley separating Napa Valley on its south border and Alexander Valley to its north, Knights Valley excels in similar varieties as the two aforementioned appellations, namely red Bordeaux varieties and blends, as well as Sauvignon blanc. Originally established by Beringer Vineyards, today several outstanding producers claim acreage here. The circadian cooling effects of the nearby Pacific Ocean create a nighttime respite for vineyards during the hot growing season.