Winemaker Notes
2017 was cooperative for much of the growing season, but required patience and bravery as we approached harvest, with uncertain weather right up until it was finally the perfect time to pick each block. No rookies here, we relied on our many years of experience and are once again delighted with the results. Baby Blue is always built for pleasure right out of the gate and this beautifully aromatic rendition is no exception. Loads of rich red and black fruits, plus a delightful hint of blueberry, all get the party started. This is followed up by a nice compliment of baking spices, vanilla, a kiss of gentle herbs, and just the right amount of beautiful French oak and earthy goodness to round things out on the finish. Wonderful length and supple tannins make for easy enjoyment of this joyous red.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This juicy wine is a blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Merlot, with smaller amounts of Petit Verdot, Syrah, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Grippy, youthful tannins lend structure and length around tones of integrated oak, rich blueberry and strawberry.
Editor's Choice
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Tasting Panel
The Kansas City Chiefs won the Super Bowl—and this full-bodied blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot, 7% Syrah, 6% Malbec, and 4% Cabernet Franc won the afternoon at the barbecue where I watched the big game. Ready to drink now, it offers ripe blueberries, blackberries, and raspberry jam plus a creamy swirl of chocolate and vanilla on the mid-palate that leads to a dry, graphite-laden finish. Its richness works perfectly with a cheeseburger, and the packaging is elegant with a tinge of mystery
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.
Nearly a northern extension of Napa Valley, Alexander Valley starts just north of the small, Knights Valley, and is just a few minutes drive from the Napa town of Calistoga. It is Sonoma County’s hottest AVA. But the Russian River, which runs through the valley, creates cooler pockets and its soft, alluvial soil is ideal for grape growing, especially Cabernet Sauvignon. In fact, some believe that Alexander Valley Cabernets truly rival the best from Napa Valley and many of the heavy-hitter producers have largely invested here.
In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes up over 50% of plantings, Merlot and old vine Zinfandel thrive here. Ample, fleshy Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc dominate white wine production. Some old-vine plantings of Grenache have also been discovered and more recent experiments with Sangiovese and Barbera show great promise.