2013 Larkmead, LMV Salon, Napa Valley 1x750ml

Vinous 92+

Dark ruby-red. A bit more liqueur-like and subdued on the nose than the Solari, and blacker in its fruit character. Powerful and thick yet somehow juicy as well, showing greater density of texture but less aromatic definition and detail than the 2013 Solari. Its slightly liqueur-like cherry cola and spice flavors were initially overshadowed by a musky oak element but aeration brought a suaver mouthfeel and building sweetness. Still, this is a less fruity style of wine than the 2013 Solari. Boasts a powerful spine, although the wine’s substantial granular tannins arrive late. This wine is in an awkward stage right now and will require patience. (15.6% alcohol) [Stephen Tanzer, 29/08/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2024-2039

Robert Parker 97

The 2013 Proprietary Red LMV Salon, which is a proprietary red of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon and 26% Cabernet Franc, is stunning. The Cabernet Franc seems to give this wine a tremendous fragrance, as the opaque purple color offers notes of cedar wood, underbrush, forest floor and spring flowers along with creme de cassis and black cherries. With a full body, ripe texture and moderately high tannins, this wine will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring and keep 30-35 years. [Robert M. Parker, Jr., 28/10/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2015-2050