Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (1977)
SommeliAI Insights
A well-balanced Cabernet Sauvignon with aromas of cassis, dark berries, and subtle earthy notes.
About this wine
The 1977 Clos du Val Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon offers a harmonious blend of cassis and dark berry aromas, complemented by hints of cigar ash, dried eucalyptus, and tobacco leaf. On the palate, it presents a medium-full body with moderate ripeness, showcasing flavors of dark berries and subtle earthy undertones. The tannins are well-integrated, providing a smooth texture that leads to a long, focused finish. This wine reflects the classic, restrained style of Napa Valley Cabernets from that era, emphasizing balance and elegance. Notably, Clos du Val's early vintages gained international recognition, with their 1972 Cabernet Sauvignon participating in the historic 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting, highlighting the winery's commitment to producing age-worthy wines.
About the grape
Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape known for its thick skins and resilience, was the primary varietal in the 1977 Clos du Val Reserve. Clos du Val, established in 1972 in Napa Valley's Stags Leap District, gained prominence when its inaugural 1972 Cabernet Sauvignon participated in the 1976 Judgment of Paris, a blind tasting that elevated California wines on the global stage. The 1977 vintage faced challenges due to rain during harvest, yet many Cabernets from that year, including Clos du Val's, showcased good varietal character and aging potential. This vintage reflects the winery's commitment to producing balanced and age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignons.
Quick facts
- 🏆 Clos du Val's 1972 Cabernet Sauvignon gained international acclaim by participating in the 1976 Judgment of Paris, a blind tasting where California wines outperformed French wines, challenging traditional perceptions.
- 🏰 The term 'Clos' in Clos du Val is French for 'enclosure,' traditionally referring to a walled vineyard, symbolizing the winery's commitment to producing high-quality, estate-grown wines.
- 🍷 The 1977 vintage of Clos du Val's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is noted for its elegance and balance, reflecting the winery's dedication to crafting wines with a harmonious profile.
- 🌄 Clos du Val was founded in 1972 by John Goelet, a descendant of a prominent New York merchant family, and winemaker Bernard Portet, who sought to create Bordeaux-style wines in Napa Valley.
- 💰 The 1977 vintage of Clos du Val's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is considered a collector's item, with bottles occasionally appearing at auctions and commanding significant interest from wine enthusiasts.
Palate profile
Producer
Clos du Val, established in 1972 by John and Henrietta Goelet, is a family-owned winery located in Napa Valley's Stags Leap District, California. The Goelets, with ties to Bordeaux's esteemed wine merchant Barton & Guestier, enlisted French winemaker Bernard Portet to find an ideal location for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. Portet's search led him to Napa Valley, where Clos du Val's inaugural 1972 Cabernet Sauvignon gained international acclaim by participating in the 1976 Judgment of Paris, a blind tasting that elevated California wines on the global stage. Today, Clos du Val continues to craft balanced and complex wines, maintaining its legacy of excellence.
