Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Black Label Claret 2007 California

Grapes from Napa, Sonoma and El Dorado make up this Claret (or English Bordeaux) blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot, 4% Malbec and 3% Cabernet Franc. Aged 16 months in French oak, oozing aromas of licorice, and vanilla, with an almost perfect contrast of flavors showing dark chocolate, strawberries, roasted coffee, chalk or white pepper, ripe sour cherries and prunes. A very generous finish displays itself via a robust rich texture and silky tannins. 13% alcohol and in the $15-20 range. Very nice.

Winemaker's notes:
The 2007 vintage got underway earlier than most years as a result of premature bud break. This occurred because of an unseasonably warm winter. The season lasted longer than normal as well because of prolonged moderate temperatures. These conditions were ideal for creating physiologically perfect fruit, which is why winemakers have declared this one of the best vintages of the decade. Our Claret is always elegant, but this year it’s a true show stopper; lush with a beautiful tapestry of smooth tannins, intense flavor, and seductive aromas. With a deep crimson color, this wine gives way to aromas of blackberries, plums and vanilla cream while flavors of wild berries, cherries, spice and mocha dance on the palate.