Today’s critically-acclaimed 2013 Calluna Vineyards ‘CVC’ delivers full-bodied opulence with simultaneous balance and poise that greatly over-performs for its modest price tag. Just a short 20-minute drive transports you from the northern Napa Valley to the Chalk Hill appellation in Sonoma.
Here Calluna’s picturesque vineyards, perched on the western side of the Mayacamas, have the highest elevation in the AVA, which results in retained freshness and balance that is strikingly reminiscent of the red wines of both Bordeaux and Napa. While their Napa neighbors generally demand a much higher price tag, this harmonious red captures all the flair of California with old world balance for a fraction of the price found in Napa. For those of you who love high-end Napa reds, but hate the often $100+ prices, this standout beauty is a wine to stock by the case – or more. Once you slide the cork from the bottle, it will quickly become apparent why the critics are clamoring over this wine – it is undeniably delicious.
The 2013 Calluna C.V.C. has an opaque purple core with pink and magenta reflections throughout. Intense ripe aromas of boysenberry preserves, blackcurrant and black cherry liqueur waft from the glass over fragrances of cacao nibs, leather, tobacco, a touch of crushed brown earth and beautifully integrated exotic spices. The full-bodied, extracted palate has a beautiful sweetness to the core of blackberry, blueberry, and boysenberry fruit and evolves to reveal a hint of spiciness, leather, tobacco, pencil lead and a soft, crushed earth minerality. A perfect candidate for early drinking, this wine will see its best years now and through its seventh birthday, but could handle a decade or more if kept well. Simply decant for 20 minutes and serve in Bordeaux stems at 60-65 degrees for the alcohol and aromatics to be in harmony. I would serve this wine with a delicious cut of meat alongside sautéed mushrooms and roasted potatoes.