Winemaker Notes
Dark, deep and beautiful, this almost opaque wine’s aroma leads with a cornucopia of fresh fruit: black cherry, red currant, ripe plum, and blackberry; a reminder of the vintage’s generous sunshine and excellent harvest conditions. A swirl in a glass or decanter reveals complex hints of bay leaf, anise, cacao and graphite. The first sip is more savory and firm than the fruit-forward aroma cues would suggest as Kalamata olive, mocha, cranberry, and blackberry fill out the full-bodied mouthfeel with a sleek mineral-influenced backbone and a bright, mouth watering finish. This wine has a strong, elegant character that will allow it to be enjoyed with the finest cuts of meat as well as more subtle dishes like game birds, mushroom risotto and even many vegetarian preparations. If you decide to add it to your cellar, its longevity can be measured in decades rather than years.
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.
Known for elegant wines that combine power and finesse, Carneros is set in the rolling hills that straddle the southernmost parts of both Sonoma and Napa counties. The cooling winds from the abutting San Pablo Bay, combined with lots of midday California sunshine, create an ideal environment for producing wines with a perfect balance of crisp acidity and well-ripened fruit.
This cooler pocket of California lends itself to growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Carneros is an important source of sparkling wines made in the style of Champagne as well.