Stunning Reds from Blankiet
Sometimes it is just appropriate to enjoy world class red wine. Such is the case at Blankiet Estate (pronounced Blănk-ē-ā) in Yountville, California. This winery does things to extract the most flavor and deliver smooth texture in each bottle of wine. It starts with the management in the vineyard and extends through each step of the harvest to cellaring.
Our visit to Blankiet was impressive as the views are simply gorgeous. The winery sits on the western slope of the Mayacamas Mountains that create part of the western edge of the Napa Valley. The ride up from Highway 29 was a gentle slope up a gravel road. The approach to the winery was a bit deceptive as the winery itself is contained in a cave that is well carved from the mountain, not visible from the road. From the road, all you see are vineyards.
Our tour of the production process spoke to the quality and care that the grapes receive during and after harvest. For example, the crates that are used throughout the harvest are half the size of most other wineries. This limits the amount of crushing from the weight of the grapes before sorting. The sorting of the grapes (with the intent to use only the grapes of right quality and size) is done by an optical sorter which mechanically removes grapes too small or not fully developed. This winery uses not only one but two optical sorters in a row to ensure that only the best grapes make it into the flagship wines.
The wines are remarkable. They make three flagship wines: a 100% Cabernet, a Red Bordeaux Blend, and a Merlot-driven wine. These wines show tremendous richness and lush fruit flavors. The 2016s from Blankiet received high scores from Antonio Galloni, whom I regard as one of the most discerning critics in the business. The Cabernet was given 100 points, the Red Blend 98 points, and the Merlot-dominate wine 98 points. This was truly a wonderful line up.
For years, I have been purchasing Blankiet’s “second” wine – Prince of Hearts. The grapes used to make Prince of Hearts are those that do not make it into the flagship wines; and, each year, it is an admirable wine. To again reference Galloni, he calls the 2016 Prince of Hearts a “super-refined, brilliant entry-level offering. Readers who can find the 2016 are in for a real treat, as the wine is truly special.” While you may want to join the mailing list for Blankiet, you can find this wine from previous vintages at Total Wine. It is worth the effort.
Enjoy!
