Ephemera

The region of Bordeaux, long heralded as the economic center of the wine world, straddles the Garonne River as it flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The rich deposits left by the river have resulted in two main soil types in Bordeaux. To the western side of the river, known as “The Left Bank,” Cabernet Sauvignon reigns supreme and reaches its ultimate heights in the stony, gravelly soil. Here the warm temperatures are balanced by the cool air of the Atlantic so grapes can ripen slowly, reaching a depth of concentration and complexity not achievable anywhere else in the world. The formidable tannins of the Cabernet Sauvignon are slightly mellowed by the inclusion of the softer, silkier Merlot. The closely related Cabernet Franc adds its trademark herbaceous aroma and graphite minerality to complete this limited-quantity, small-batch blend.

The mouth is classic Bordeaux, with dark-berried fruit and substantial tannins leading an intense and intriguing fruit profile. Classic spice notes of sandalwood, cedar, and cigar box lead to cinnamon and vanilla on the long and intense finish. Tame the sturdiness of this wine’s structure with strong red-meat flavors. Or lay this down in your cellar to develop and mellow over the next several years.