I was beyond happy when I opened the box containing this special wine. I’m familiar with Clos du Val and their reliably excellent wines. As a busy mom, I don’t always have time to browse the wine aisle. I can quickly spot the Clos du Val label and run to the check out, as the Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are usually easy to find in major grocery stores. The Clos du Val Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon, however, is a different story. Only 2,400 cases produced versus 35,000+ for their Cabernet Sauvignon.
We saved it to drink on our anniversary. It was delicious. If you don’t believe me, the Wine Enthusiast rated it a 94 while Wine & Spirits gave it a 93. It was very well balanced, smooth and a treat to drink. At a retail price of $70, that’s a special occasion wine in our house and it definitely justified the price tag.
Clos du Val Winemaker’s Notes: “Clos Du Val’s flagship estate wine, the 2005 Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon is deep purple-black in color with vibrant aromas of ripe black fruit and a hint of dried herbs, mocha coffee and toast. The wine has a rich, powerful entry, and concentrated mid-palate, filling the mouth with intense black fruit and spice. With its velvety-smooth tannins and elegant structure, this Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic expression of Stags Leap District terroir. The finish is long and lingering. Enjoy now or cellar for at least 10-15 years.”
Declaration of Vindependence: A recent Omnibus survey of 1,000 American adults found that less than half consistently stick to their principles and make their own decisions, regardless of what others say and close to half of wine drinkers surveyed admit to relying on the opinion of others when choosing a wine. I’m guilty of the latter, but one of the great things about wine is that what one person doesn’t like, someone else might think is fantastic. There’s really no right or wrong. Clos du Val recently announced it’s “Declaration of Vindependence” which is a commitment to make wines in the manner they believe is right, even if it’s contrary to mainstream opinion. Go sign the declaration and you’ll receive 15% off purchases through 2010 and be eligible for special giveaways.
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Back to the wine, you may of course serve this wine to guests but I might suggest that you hoard it for yourself. Enjoy it over a long, lazy dinner of filet mignon. You’ll have to purchase this through the winery or through specialty online stores. This wine was provided as a media sample from The Barn Group.
I talk about wine every Wednesday from the perspective of a busy mom. For an explanation of Wine Wednesday ratings click here.
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