Robert Foley Claret 2017 750ml

Harvest of 2017 was unusually early for us, so the wildfires that ravaged
Napa and Sonoma counties that year, happened while our wines were
already in tank or barrel. We were thankfully spared from the flames and
any smoke damage to our fruit.

Our Left-Bank Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend is comprised of 80%
Cabernet blended with Merlot and a trace of Petit Verdot. Another very
dark, opaque appearance belies the degree of ripeness achieved in the
early 2017 vintage. Balanced like a fine Cabernet, red and Bing cherry
aromas characterize the purity of the fruit. A flood of fruit coats the midpalate,
framed in popping and beautiful tannins that linger gently in the
finish, which extends with natural integrated acidity. [94 Jeb Dunnuck]

Howell Mountain, at 2000ft, on the east side of Napa Valley, has extreme exposure,
larger temperature swings, and volcanic soil, creating big firm shoulders,
and masculine tannins. Calistoga vineyards are hotter and earlier to ripen, which
provide the mid-palate lushness of glycerin and a higher alcohol.