2016 The Falstaff Proprietary Red
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Tasting notes
The 2016 Falstaff is gorgeous. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, spice, menthol and graphite all hit the palate. Vivid and imposing, with terrific intensity, the 2016 is wonderfully deep and full of character. I imagine it will drink well for many years to come. The 2016 is impressive in this tasting.
Critic scores
Average Score
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The 2016 The Falstaff is rich and deeply intriguing. It also needs a bit of time in bottle to shed some of its tannin. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, spice, menthol, graphite and spice are all beautifully delineated. The 2016 should drink well for another decade, give or take.
The 2016 Falstaff is the Cabernet Franc blend of the estate (there’s 37% Cabernet Sauvignon) that was sourced primarily from the Oakville appellation. Ripe black cherries, currants, scorched earth, chocolate, and a flowery, forest floor-like character all emerge from this powerful, concentrated, structured Cabernet Franc. It doesn’t have the sexiness of the To Kolan Cabernet Franc release, yet it’s classic Cabernet Franc all the way and offers sensational purity of fruit. Hide this for 3-4 years and enjoy over the following two decades.
This mostly cabernet franc shows form and finesse, due to the fine-grained tannins that frame the whole thing. Medium to full body, juicy fruit and a flavorful finish. Drink or hold.
About the producer
Realm Cellars has become one of Napa Valley’s most compelling modern estates, known for site-driven Cabernet Sauvignon. Drawing from some of the valley’s most sought-after vineyards, Realm’s wines consistently earn top critical acclaim while remaining firmly rooted in place.