2016 Robert Foley “Claret” Napa Valley

Robert Foley’s flagship wine, Claret is our left-bank bordeaux blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot. Ripe black cherry aromas mingle with a hint of camphor. Finely balanced extract, alcohol and natural acidity coat the palate with flavors and gentle tannin. In our assessment, this is our most elegant wine – drinkable now, and it will only get better with time. The mountain vineyards (Howell Mountain, Mount Veeder) share a common denominator in structure – big firm shoulders, masculine tannins, but individual characteristics. Howell Mountain, at 2000ft, on the east side of Napa Valley, has extreme exposure, larger temperature swings, and volcanic soil, creating very firm tannins. Mount Veeder has geologically churned volcanic and ocean-floor soil and the vineyard is nestled in a dense wild forest, which contributes exotic aromatics of menthol and spice in a slightly more refined interplay. Calistoga vineyards are hotter and earlier to ripen, which provide the mid-palate lushness of glycerin and a higher alcohol.