Press

This week's tasting included one of the most interesting bottles of Napa wine I've had in some time, a Charbono from J. McClelland, that I highly recommend for anyone who thinks they know Napa well.

2012 J. McClelland Charbono, Napa Valley, California
Dark garnet in the glass, this wine smells of cassis, woodsmoke, and concord grapes. In the mouth, wonderfully earthy pure black cherry flavors mix with a hint of iron rust and licorice. Excellent acidity and minerality. A very distinctive and compelling wine that I am very happy to have tasted. Excellent. 13.9% alcohol. Score: around 9. Cost: $45

Review: 2012 J. McClelland Charbono - California, Napa Valley
Dark ruby color. Deep and saucy on the nose: black cherries and dark plums, blackberries, notes of spiced coffee, black pepper, barbecue glaze, sweet violets. Medium-full bodied, dry-firm tannins, medium-low acid. Deep and chewy black fruits, hints of blueberry, a full and forward wine with smoky charcoal notes, black pepper, toasted oak and dark chocolate. Long and rich with lots of complex spice, coffee and roasted herb notes. Could definitely use some time or air, but a really exciting and gutsy wine. (90 points IJB)

95 Points - J. McClelland, Napa Valley (California) Charbono 2012 ($45): Charbono has a long history in California, but only a small amount remains in plantings, and even less is bottled as a stand-alone variety.  Wines like this one may give the remaining growers some relief from the pressure to graft over to more popular varieties.  Deep black fruit and subtle spice aromas and a fleshy palate that delivers the promise of the nose with supple tannins and a rich finish that will appeal to a wide range of red wine fans, and it will pair with a range of meats, from the summer grill to the autumn oven.  Nicely done!  A Platinum Award winner at the 2015 Critics Challenge International Wine Competition.