2015 Larkmead, Firebelle, Napa Valley

Vinous 90-93

The 2015 Firebelle is surprisingly tannic for a Merlot-based wine. Then again, the move from 3% Petit Verdot in the 2014 to 8% in the 2015, co-fermented with the Merlot, gives the wine much of its darkness and powerful feel. Dense and muscular to the core, the 2015 gives the impression it will be slow to mature. [Antonio Galloni, 12/01/2016]

Robert Parker 91+

“A blend of 71% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Petit Verdot, the 2015 Firebelle Proprietary Red opens with a deep garnet-purple color and baked plums, peppered salami and black forest cake-scented nose with dried herbs and tilled soil nuances. The medium to full-bodied palate is firm, chewy and muscular with earthy suggestions, just lacking a little expressiveness and depth at this stage.” [Lisa Perrotti-Brown, 31/10/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030