2016 Larkmead LMV Salon
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Tasting notes
53% Cabernet Franc, 47% Cabernet Sauvignon. Cab Franc prices are the highest because it’s relatively rare, I was told. (Petit Verdot used to be in this position.) Cabernet Franc is now over $9k a ton with Cabernet Sauvignon just under. Prices have softened for bulk wine but not grapes apparently. Pretty sweet and rich with only a hint of fragrance. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
This red is mostly cabernet franc and shows all the fresh-herb, dark-berry, plum and tobacco character you would expect. Hazelnuts, too. Fresh mushrooms. Full-bodied yet reserved and focused. Long and flavorful. Beautiful and lightly chewy now, but will be even better in 2022.
The 2016 LMV Salon is just as compelling from bottle as it was from barrel. Rose petal, mint, sweet red cherry and espresso open up in a very pretty, aromatically expressive wine. Cabernet Franc takes the leading role in the LMV Salon in 2016, and that comes through very nicely here. Bright, vibrant and full of character, the 2016 hits all the right notes. What a gorgeous wine it is.
A barrel sample blended of 53% Cabernet Franc and 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, the deep garnet-purple colored 2016 LMV Salon (White Label) has a compelling nose of crushed redcurrants, mulberries and fresh blackcurrants with touches of dried Provence herbs, pencil lead, tobacco leaf and wood smoke. Medium to full-bodied, it has tons of taut, muscular red and black fruit layers, supported by firm, chewy tannins and great freshness, finishing long and earthy. 690 cases are expected to be made.