Duckhorn The Discussion 2010 Front Bottle Shot
Duckhorn The Discussion 2010 Front Bottle Shot Duckhorn The Discussion 2010 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

Over three decades ago, before crafting their first vintage, the Duckhorns and their winemaker had a passionate discussion at the kitchen table. Though they debated making a cuvee, they chose to focus on varietal wines. Even so, Duckhorn Vineyards has always remained fascinated by the artful blend of varietals from diverse Napa Valley vineyards. Embodying the depth and complexity of a world class Estate program, The Discussion represents the pinnacle of the Duckhorn Vineyards portfolio and the ongoing dialogue that defines great winemaking.

The Discussion is blended using barrels of the best Estate wine from the 2010 vintage. While there is abundant, rich upfront fruit in the aromas and on the palate, what makes this wine so noteworthy is its layered sophistication. Dark berry and gamey aromas offer a beautiful prelude to a rich, velvety mouthfeel with fine-grained tannins. Elegantly integrated oak adds hints of sweet baking spice, oak and kernal characteristics, while providing length and dimension.

Professional Ratings

  • 92
    Taking the winemaker's art to a new level, that is what the Duckhorn folks have done with Discussion. While known for their varietals-Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon, they have created The Discussion to show the supreme artistry of the winemaker's soul. The 2010 The Discussion, made mostly from Cabernet Sauvignon with some Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot is just plain solid. Black fruit, lots of it and some graphite note. We should be enjoying glass with prime rib of beef.
Duckhorn Vineyards

Duckhorn Vineyards

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Undoubtedly proving its merit over and over, Napa Valley is a now a leading force in the world of prestigious red wine regions. Though Cabernet Sauvignon dominates Napa Valley, other red varieties certainly thrive here. Important but often overlooked include Merlot and other Bordeaux varieties well-regarded on their own as well as for their blending capacities. Very old vine Zinfandel represents an important historical stronghold for the region and Pinot noir is produced in the cooler southern parts, close to the San Pablo Bay.

Perfectly situated running north to south, the valley acts as a corridor, pulling cool, moist air up from the San Pablo Bay in the evenings during the hot days of the growing season, which leads to even and slow grape ripening. Furthermore the valley claims over 100 soil variations including layers of volcanic, gravel, sand and silt—a combination excellent for world-class red wine production.

DWCDSN1075_2010 Item# 129687