Krutz Family Cellars Krupp Vineyard Malbec 2007
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96 cases produced
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A brilliant Malbec, among the greatest ever produced in California. It's fat and opulent, shocking the palate with massive flavors of blackberries, blueberries, plums, cola, peppery spices and sweet, smoky sandalwood. Firm tannins hold everything in place, while the finish is thoroughly dry. Only 100 cases were produced, but it's worth a search. Editors' Choice
Although Krutz Family Cellars was founded by an army and family of one (Patrick), it has just recently truly grown into its 'full' business name. The '03-'07 vintages were crafted entirely by Patrick. Youngest brother Cole came on the scene in 2007. Cole is our chief cellar rat and is currently enrolling in a Wine MBA curriculum at Sonoma State College. Also new to the family is Rebecca Kuchar Krutz. She and Patrick met each other in Napa Valley in the summer of 2007 and since have been doing their share of adding to the Krutz gene pool with Patrick II and a daughter expected in June. When the business was founded, the word "Family" was included due to Patrick's tight ties with his parents and brothers, but now it certainly encompasses an even bigger and broader meaning. After all, anyone who enjoys a bottle of Krutz Family Cellars is part of our extended family!
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.