2010 Chalk Hill Estate Red
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Tasting notes
(43% cabernet sauvignon, 19% merlot, 15% malbec, 12% petit verdot, 10% syrah and 1% carmenere; 58% new oak): Dark purple. Expansive, oak-spiced dark berry and licorice aromas are complicated by notes of vanilla, smoked meat and fruitcake. Shows a plush, rounded character on entry, then tightens up in the mid-palate and offers smoky blackcurrant and cherry liqueur flavors and hint of mocha. Closes supple and long, with touches of smoke and vanilla and gently gripping tannins. This opulent but energetic wine is surprisingly accessible now, especially after some air time. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2010 Proprietary Red Estate (43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 15% Malbec, 12% Petit Verdot, 10% Syrah and 1% Carmenere) is something to be endorsed as the wine world tries to move from a varietal-conscious, mono-cepage philosophy to where the best wines will tend to be blends, even if they are dominated by one grape or another. Chalk Hill’s 2010 Red Estate exhibits an inky/purple color followed by aromas of black olives, cassis and toast. Rich, full-bodied and expressive, it is built for the long haul rather than for current drinkability. A beautiful texture, full-bodied mouthfeel, terrific purity and a long finish suggest it will be significantly more complex and softer in 5-10 years, and last for 20-25+ years. This estate is now owned by William Foley, who purchased it from the Firth family that founded the vineyard. Chalk Hill is one of Northern California's older AVAs, established in 1985. Tel. (707) 657-4837