by Calla Lily
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by Calla Lily
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The Calla Lily “Ultimate Red” Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Napa Valley, is a blend of 84 percent cabernet sauvignon, 6 percent each cabernet franc and merlot and 4 percent malbec, aged 22 months in French oak, 40 percent new barrels. The wine displays an inky-purple robe that shades to a magenta rim; iodine, iron and graphite, intense and concentrated blue and black fruit; large-framed, lithe and supple, with huge presence and substance; loads of dusty, graphite-ridden tannins and granitic elements. 14.5 percent alcohol. Try 2022 or ’23 through 2030 to ’33. Very Good+ for now, perhaps Excellent potential.
Calla Lily is a venture helmed by Napa Valley veteran Cary Gott, with the investment of a few businessmen from Hong Kong. The clear intent is to fashion cabernet-based wines for those with patience and cool cellars.
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From the eastern side of Howell Mountain, this estate grown red is a blend of 89.9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5.3% Cab Franc, 4.7% Merlot, with a pinch of Malbec. Concentrated and opulent, with creamy boysenberry, black tea, and cinnamon spice. With a high tone profile, and a base of graphite, its athletic prowess is deep-rooted. ~
Steeped plum and blackberry fruit shows good density, while light accents of apple wood, singed anise and bramble add range and texture through the finish. Offers solid grip. Best from 2025 through 2036. 508 cases made. ~ Wine Spectator
From a winery in Pope Valley, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Ultimate Red is a slightly herbal, slightly dusty-earthy wine, with decent underlying cassis and black cherry fruit. It’s full-bodied, framed by similarly dusty tannins and some hints of dry cedar on the finish. — Wine Advocate
A selection of top lots from the estate’s Pope Valley holdings, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Audax saw about 50% new French oak, leaving it with some smoky, toasty nuances on the nose. There are also plenty of sage-like herbal notions, plus cassis, plum and vanilla notes. It’s full-bodied, richly textured and creamy-plush in feel, coming
