2008 Roy Estate Proprietary Red
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Tasting notes
(75% cabernet sauvignon, 20% merlot and 5% petit verdot; aged 18 months in all new French oak): Cool aromas of black cherry, menthol and licorice. Slightly streaky acidity accentuates the penetrating quality to the cassis, licorice and kirsch flavors. Building tannins are joined by a firm acid spine on the end, which features some rocky, almost syrah-like notes. This fruit comes from "the beginning of Atlas Peak, the south part of Stag's Leap," noted winemaker Philippe Melka, who told me yields were low in both 2009 and 2008. Dense, fresh and cool for Napa Valley wine, with good acid lift.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2008 Proprietary Red (75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot aged 18 months in French casks) is performing exceptionally well. Its dense plum/purple color is followed by a big, sweet kiss of camphor, white chocolate, blackberries, cassis and earthy/foresty notes. Full-bodied with beautiful texture, purity and length, it should drink well for 15-20 years. When I met with proprietor Shirley Roy I was saddened to learn that her husband, Charles, had passed away this year. Together they had dreamed of producing world class wines from their 17-acre vineyard in the southern part of Napa Valley known as Soda Canyon. Shirley is committed to continuing that dream, and I wish her all the best. She’s in good hands given the fact that their vineyard was planted by Helen Turley and John Wetlaufer, and the wine is now being made by the well-known French consultant, Philippe Melka. If readers have not yet checked out the Roy offerings from this rocky, cool climate site at the base of Atlas Peak, I highly suggest they do so. Tel. (707) 255-4409; Fax (707) 255-4472