Estate Bottled Red (1986)
SommeliAI Insights
A mature Sonoma Valley red blend with notes of dried cherry, cedar, and earthy undertones.
About this wine
The 1986 Carmenet Estate Bottled Red from Sonoma Valley is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Over the years, it has developed flavors of dried cherry and raspberry, complemented by cedar and cigar box notes. Earthy undertones, such as leather and a hint of smoke, add complexity. The tannins have softened, resulting in a smoother mouthfeel. This wine reflects the excellent 1986 vintage in California, known for its balanced conditions that produced age-worthy wines.
About the grape
The 1986 Carmenet Estate Bottled Red from Sonoma Valley is a blend predominantly featuring Cabernet Sauvignon (88%), complemented by Merlot (7%) and Cabernet Franc (5%). Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its thick skins and small berries, thrives in Sonoma's warm climate, contributing to the wine's deep color and robust tannins. Merlot, with its softer tannins and earlier ripening, adds a plush texture and ripe fruit flavors, while Cabernet Franc introduces aromatic complexity and subtle spice notes. This combination reflects the Bordeaux-style blending tradition, adapted to Sonoma's unique terroir.
Quick facts
- 🏞️ Carmenet Winery, established in 1982, is nestled in the rugged slopes of Mount Veeder, straddling the border between Sonoma and Napa Valleys.
- 💥 The winery's name, 'Carmenet,' is pronounced 'car-men-ay' and is derived from the dynamite used to blast vineyard sites into the rocky volcanic hillsides.
- 🍷 The 1986 vintage in Sonoma Valley was considered very good, producing full-bodied, well-structured wines.
- 🍇 Carmenet's 1986 Estate Bottled Red is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, showcasing the winery's focus on Bordeaux-style blends.
- 🚙 The winery's remote location is accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicles and is not open to the public, although groups can visit by special invitation.
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/.
