| Score: |
97 RP.
"From their beautiful hillside vineyards situated behind the vast estate of Dominus, Blankiet has produced a 2003 Merlot Paradise Hills Estate offering a gorgeously complex bouquet of Chinese black tea, black currants, earth, chocolate and a touch of mocha. Frankly, I’m not sure a Napa Merlot can be any more complex than this. With a deep plum/purple color and round, juicy, full-bodied opulence, this 2003 could easily compete with the greatest Pomerols or Saint-Émilions. Made from 100% Merlot, it was aged 18 months in 100% new Taransaud barrels, which provide the chocolaty, espresso notes. This sensational wine is showing even better than I remember. Impressive, rich and long . . ." Wine Advocate #207, Jun 2013 |