Estate Bottled Red (1987)

About this wine

The 1987 Carmenet Estate Bottled Red from Sonoma Valley is a Bordeaux-style blend that has matured gracefully over the decades. This wine offers a complex bouquet of dark berries, complemented by subtle hints of chocolate and spice. On the palate, it presents a harmonious balance of fruit and earthy notes, with a touch of vanilla adding depth. The tannins have softened over time, resulting in a smooth, lingering finish. Notably, Carmenet's vineyards, established in the early 1980s, are situated in the Mayacamas Mountains, contributing to the wine's distinctive character.

About the grape

In the 1980s, Sonoma Valley winemakers began crafting Bordeaux-style blends, combining traditional French grape varieties to create complex and balanced wines. Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its deep color and robust tannins, forms the backbone of these blends. Merlot adds softness and ripe fruit flavors, while Cabernet Franc contributes aromatic complexity. Malbec, though less common, imparts rich color and plum-like flavors, and Petit Verdot enhances structure and deepens color. The 1987 Carmenet Estate Bottled Red is an example of this blending tradition, showcasing how these varietals complement each other to produce a harmonious wine.

Quick facts

• 🚙 Carmenet Winery, established in 1982, is located in a remote area of California's Sonoma Valley, accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicles.
• 🍷 The winery's name, 'Carmenet,' is derived from an archaic term for a variety used in traditional Bordeaux blends, reflecting its focus on Bordeaux-style wines.
• 🔥 In 1996, a wildfire destroyed 75% of Carmenet's vineyards, but neighboring wineries generously provided grapes to help maintain production.
• 🍇 The 1987 Estate Bottled Red from Carmenet is a blend of five Bordeaux varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, showcasing the winery's dedication to complex blends.
• 🦅 The label of Carmenet wines features a red-tailed hawk, symbolizing the birds frequently seen soaring above the winery's mountainous terrain.

Palate profile

Producer

Carmenet (pronounced "Car-men-ay") was established in 1983, drawing inspiration from French winemaking traditions while embracing a Californian perspective. The winery's vineyards are located in Lodi, California, specifically at the family-owned Forest Lake Vineyard. Carmenet is renowned for producing balanced and elegant wines that offer an affordable luxury experience. Their motto, "half the price, yet twice as nice," reflects their commitment to quality and value. The winery's website is https://www.carmenetreserve.com/.