2007 Blankiet Estate Rive Droite Paradise Hills Vineyard Red

Composed of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, the dark plum/purple/garnet-tinged 2007 Rive Droite Proprietary Red offers kirsch, black currant, coffee bean, cocoa and loamy, earthy notes in its opulent, voluptuously textured personality. Heady, exuberant and flashy, this already irresistible 2007 should continue to drink well for 15+ years. 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 Michel Rolland has been replaced by Denis Malbec, but superstar viticulturist David Abreu still manages this gorgeous hillside vineyard in the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains, just behind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 for their second wine called Prince of Hearts. The 2007s essentially performed as well as they did last year, and it appears to be the greatest vintage yet produced at Blankiet. Tel. (707) 963-2001; Fax (707) 963-2012