2016 Blankiet Rive Droite Paradise Hills VineyardWinemaker Notes Claude and Katherine Blankiet continue to make subtle changes in their winemaking at Blankiet Estate. Michel Rolland has been replaced by Denis Malbec, but superstar viticulturist David Abreu still manages this gorgeous hillside vineyard in the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains, just behind the large estate of Dominus. The 2008s have improved dramatically since last year, which may be the result of the culling out of certain lots

This wine displays all the hallmarks of its cooler growing season—richness

among other things

Tannins start off soft

Georges Latour founded Beaulieu Vineyard in 1900

crushed aspirin

A finishing touch of dark chocolate leaves one wanting more

Quality of the terroir

Winemaker Notes:

white currants

from 80 acres of estate vineyards in the Russian River Valley

Helena in the northern Napa Valley

comprising 1150 hectares (2850 acres) of estate vineyards plus more from growers