2012 Claret, Napa Valley
Publication
Wine Enthusiast
Author
Virginie Boone
Date
July 2015
Rating
91
Review
An excellent value given the quality of all the individual components, this wine blends 70% Cabernet Sauvignon with 24% Merlot, 2% Malbec, 2% Syrah, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, giving it a unique California edge. Black tea and plum rise most prominently to the front of the bouquet, holding on to a softened, floral bouquet with slight Syrah-like violet.
Publication
Ronn Wiegand's Restaurant Wine
Author
Ronn Wiegand
Date
April 2015
Rating
4 stars
Review
Excellent Cab blend: fleshy in texture, complex in flavor, and full bodied; an appealing, balanced wine with a long finish, tasting of black currant, cherry, cassis, herbs, toast, and spicy oak. Fine value. 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 2% Malbec, 2% Syrah, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot. Aged 12 months in French and American oak barrels, 12% new. 14.5%
Publication
Vinous
Author
Antonio Galloni
Date
February 2015
Rating
89
Review
The 2012 Claret is a fabulous wine for the money. Bright red fruit, iron, smoke, spices and dried flowers lift from the glass in a vibrant, perfumed Cabernet Sauvignon-based red long on personality. Expressive floral and spice notes add lift on the finish. The style is a bit lighter than is typically found in the Ramey Cabernets, which also contributes to the wine's early accessibility.
Publication
Robert M. Parker Jr.'s The Wine Advocate
Author
Robert M. Parker Jr.
Date
December 2014
Rating
88
Review
Ramey has always done a good job with Cabernet Sauvignon. He produces 6,000 cases of his Claret, a lighter-styled, immediately drinkable red wine. The 2012 Claret is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot and the rest Malbec, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Its dark ruby hue is accompanied by notes of cedarwood, roasted herbs, and red and blackcurrants in a flavorful, medium-bodied, elegant, surprisingly Bordeaux-like style. This supple red is ideal for drinking now and over the next 7-8 years.
Publication
KensWineGuide.com
Date
October 31, 2014
Rating
91
Review
This dark ruby colored red blend from Napa opens with a red currant and strawberry licorice like bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced, smooth and fruit forward. The flavor profile is a unique cedar and red currant blend with hints plum and cherry-cola towards the end. The finish is dry and its mild tannins and fruit flavors drift away nicely. This wine would pair well meat lasagna. Enjoy - Ken