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| ~ The Ehler’s Estate, Napa Valley California ~ |
We here at TuscanVines absolutely love Napa Valley and the picturesque vineyard images of it’s landscape. Cabernet is king here and rightfully so. We love it even more when there’s a good story behind the wines and the subject of today’s article is one such tale.
The Ehler Estate sits on 43 impeccably farmed acres in St. Helena. These benchland vineyards were originally part of the Bernard Ehler’s estate that had been operating in the valley since the late 1800’s. Now owned by a charitable foundation called the Leducq Foundation, 100% of the estate profits are donated to Cardiovascular Research. We say bravo!
We recently tasted the 2010 Ehlers Cabernet “120 over 80”. The name of course is a nod to the ideal adult male blood pressure. The wine is delicious. A blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc, it is fermented in stainless steel and then aged in French barrique, 50% of which are new.
The wine is deep purple with violet reflections. On the nose, the wine exhibits dark plum aromas accented with cedar, fresh herbs and slight vanilla. The 2010 season was unusally cool and damp by Napa standards and the wine is a reflection of that on the palate. The plum flavors are dominant with soft, supple tannins and fresh acidity. Medium bodied with notes of tobacco, cedar and vanilla spice that build slightly on the medium finish. Not a blockbuster, but balanced and well done. Drink over the next 3-5 years. 90 points, about $45.
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| ~ Ehlers Estate: 120 over 80 Cabernet ~ |
E vero!
John, I haven't seen this wine, but I love the name; sounds quite good too!