2011 Grand Ciel Cabernet 6.0L

RED MOUNTAIN AVA

This vintage is very spicy and aromatic showing Herbs de Provence, red and black currants, blueberries, sweet straw, basil, gunflint and toast. With rich and massively concentrated fruit building on the palate, it shows brambleberry, blueberry and snappy raspberry notes plus Hoisin spice and a touch of leather. The new French oak treatment is well integrated as part of the many harmonious layers. There is a wonderful umami (i.e. savory nature) to this wine along with perfect ripeness. All in all, an inspiring wine.

"The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Ciel (100% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged in 100% new French oak for 20 to 22 months) is still backward and tight, with slightly reticent aromas of graphite, black cherry, blackberry, dark chocolate and singed cedar flowing to a full-bodied, nicely concentrated and structured feel on the palate. Showing mostly structure and tannin at present, it needs 3-4 years in the cellar, and assuming it fleshes out, will have a long life ahead of it. I’d like to see more mid-palate depth at this point, but it’s still a superb wine that will have 10-15 years of longevity even on the most conservative side.  - Jeb Dunnuck for Robert Parker, June 2014