2010 Nicholas Allen Carte Blanche Red
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Tasting notes
(a blend of 40% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 20% cabernet franc and 10% petit verdot): Saturated medium ruby. Aromas of blackberry, licorice, bitter chocolate, leather and minerals are lifted by a violet topnote. Tightly wound and a bit youthfully tough, with juicy blackberry and licorice flavors intensified by minerals. A bit lean in an Old World way, but this penetrating wine should age nicely. This is from vineyards stretching from Oak Knoll to Calistoga.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Carte Blanche is a partnership between proprietor Nicholas Allen and winemaker Luc Morlet. Although a new project started only in 2008, all of the wines I have tasted so far have been impressive. The 2010s are no exception. I also revisited the 2009s, which are just as impressive as they were last year. The 2010 Proprietary Red bursts from the glass with dark fruit, smoke, tobacco, new leather and grilled herbs. Intense layers of minerality and vibrant acidity add support and backbone. A final burst of blue and black fruit saturates the palate in this compelling wine. The 2010 stands out for its fabulous overall balance. In 2010, the blend is 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Petit Verdot.
The 2010 Proprietary Red bursts from the glass with dark fruit, smoke, tobacco, new leather and grilled herbs. Intense layers of minerality and vibrant acidity add support and backbone. A final burst of blue and black fruit saturates the palate in this compelling wine. The 2010 stands out for its fabulous overall balance. In 2010, the blend is 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. Carte Blanche is a partnership between proprietor Nicholas Allen and winemaker Luc Morlet. Although a new project started only in 2008, all of the wines I have tasted so far have been impressive. The 2010s are no exception. I also revisited the 2009s, which are just as impressive as they were last year. dj@carteblanchewine.com