Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
It does not appear that this Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot blend is named after the Liam Neeson movies of the same name. However, there is no question I was “taken” by this 2012 Proprietary Red Blend Taken. It exhibits a dense purple color as well as glorious aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants, licorice, incense, and a subtle hint of oak. With spectacular opulence, a voluptuous texture and phenomenal concentration as well as purity, but no over-ripeness or heaviness, this beauty should drink well for 10-15 years. This cuvée is a joint project of Carlo Trinchero (from the family of White Zinfandel fame) and Josh Phelps (I’m not sure if he’s related to the Joseph Phelps Winery), who have put together a killer red. As a wine lover, one hopes this is only the first of many more to come.
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.