Larkmead LMV Salon 2009

Very deep ruby red/purple color. Opens with juicy cola and fresh cherry then turns to darker blackcurrant, chalky minerals, leather and dusty cocoa. With air floral and sandalwood notes emerge. Rich, full and generous palate: ripe blackberry and cassis fruit then spicy black licorice with aromatic sage and menthol complexity. Becomes elegant, high-toned and detailed in the glass with pine needle freshness and lively acidity. Youthfully assertive tannins promise long term aging. Very much in the style of the 2009 vintage overall, our new LMV Salon release is a wine with great natural fruit density and depth, that is initially full and broad, before relaxing with air to reveal its vineyard purity, poise and elegance. There’s a great deal of complexity on offer here – Larkmead signature aromas of dried herb, menthol and graphite merge with more exotic notes of spiced apple and a touch of Malbec dark licorice. The structure of the wine is such that it can appear tight and dense and a little ‘blocky’ on opening, but with air, it turns supple, penetrating and focused. This structure, and the great amount of vineyard extract evident, will ensure it ages beautifully, up to fifteen years would be a safe bet. Decant for an hour in its youth and serve no warmer than 64°F.