2016 Firebelle Proprietary Red
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Tasting notes
67% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot. Winemaker Dan Petroski is reducing the alcohol and has progressively reduced the once-common additions (of acid and water). Sweet and fresh. Just a hint of cocoa but very friendly and not too heavy. Rich and fun with some freshness. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
Attractive aromas and flavors of black olives and plums. Medium body, firm and silky tannins and a juicy finish. Nice, linear tannins. Turns chewy and muscular. Precise and focused. Give it some time. Drink in 2022.
The 2016 Firebelle is dense, pliant and super-expressive, with terrific depth and textural resonance. Today, the Firebelle shows more floral and savory notes than it did earlier in the year. Even so, the 2016 is vibrant, focused and full of character. The firm tannins need time to soften, but there is plenty to look forward to.
Composed of 67% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Petit Verdot, the deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Firebelle (White Label) has a seductive nose of spiced black berries, black forest cake, preserved plums and kirsch with touches of eucalyptus, espresso, licorice and dried herbs. Medium to full-bodied, the spiced black fruit flavors completely coat the palate with loads of mint and herbal sparks, framed by plush tannins and just enough freshness, finishing on a lingering aniseed note.