The Latest Vintage of Calder, Charbono

The latest vintage of the Calder Wine Company Charbono sports a slightly different label but still offers unique flavors.  Both the 2009 and 2011 vintages offered up earthy flavors.  However, the 2009 vintage was meaty and the 2011 vintage showed more acidity and vintage perfume.  These vintages clearly reveal how different Charbono tastes and in my mind that makes this an essential wine to try.  This wine was purchased at The Wine Source in Baltimore.

2011 Calder Wine Company, Charbono, Meyer Vineyard, Napa Valley – $24
This wine is 100% Charbono sourced from 44 year old, dry farmed vines that were fermented in small, open-topped bins.  It was aged for 18 months in 85% neutral oak and one new French puncheon.  Alcohol 12.1%  The nose revealed high-toned aromas of herbs.  In the mouth were flavors of tart red fruit then dry black flavors came out simultaneously as the acidity built.  There were consistent flavors of subtle earthy and vintage perfume.  Though the wine was light in flavor it had some controlled ripe fruit as well.  The flavors fell a bit short in the finish only to have the vintage perfume return in the aftertaste.  Unusual.  ** Now-2018.