2018 Brown Recluse
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Sensory
Eye
Deep crimson core, vermillion rim.Nose
Intense forward notes of blue and black fruits punctuated by tropical floral notes, fruit rollup, and citrus peel. Time in the glass reveals rose petals and purple flowers followed by Alpine forest, lingering nutmeg, and a savory trace of pimiento roasted meat.Palate
Medium body, well-balanced fruit and acid, smooth finish.Cellar life
Drink now through 2035+. -
Technical
- Composition
55% Merlot
45% Cabernet Sauvignon - Vineyard source
Merlot — Dollar Ranch
Cab Sauv — Brown Estate - Appellation
Napa Valley - Barrel aging
24 months in 100% neutral French oak - Alc. by vol.
14.5%
- Composition
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Wherefore
Like its namesake spider, we hope your encounter with this elusive wine will become the stuff of lore. So reads the back label on our Brown Recluse, a reserve blend of cabernet sauvignon and zinfandel inspired by the wine David created for our first appearance at the Auction Napa Valley barrel auction. We bottle it only when Mother Nature permits, and David dials in a new ratio for each new vintage based on the qualities these two heterogeneous varietals derive from the growing season.