May 4, 2013 – Wine: 2007 Ramey Claret

Since I discovered this delicious wine back at a tasting in 2006 (the 2003 vintage was poured), I have been a fan of this consistently well-made and good-valued wine.  It offers up a lot of quality for the price and it matures early enough to be easily enjoyed.  Either open this immediately after release, or let the wine rest about three years and enjoy it at its best.  The wine usually goes into a period of being shut-down for about two years and then opens up beautifully thereafter for another two years.  (This has been my experience with the 2004, 2005, and now the 2007 vintages.)  This bottle featured a pronounced, vintage-typical nose, good weight and balance, and well-controlled tannins (after an hour of decanting).  I noted flavors of juicy blackberry, blueberry, cranberry, leather, baking spices, and mineral.  This wine is one of Napa Valley’s better values.


2007 Ramey Claret