2012 La Magdalena

The 2012 La Magdalena is the Favia/Erickson equal-part blend of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a dense ruby/purple color and 100-point aromatics that are compelling and addictive. The inky bluish/purple color is followed by intense floral aromas mixed with pure blueberry, raspberry and blackcurrants. Surely there’s plenty of new oak used in the upbringing of this wine, but you’d never know it the way this wine tastes. It is full-bodied and opulent, like Chanel’s newest haute-couture creation. This is a flawless, perfect effort that proves their mastery of this craft of winemaking. The finish goes on for a good 40-45 seconds.

(a 50/50 blend of cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon): Good deep red-ruby. Distinctly Old World nose offers currant, licorice, graphite and rust, lifted by a floral nuance. Wonderfully sweet, layered and deep, showing outstanding intensity to its dark berry, mineral and tobacco flavors. Very showy already, finishing with superb length and perfume.

Plush, round and inviting, the 2012 La Magdalena is a gorgeous example of the year. Dark plums, red cherries, mint, flowers and licorice all flesh out in the glass. The 2012 boasts gorgeous depth, power and richness. The 2012 is going to be a fascinating wine to follow over the coming years. Even with all of its fruit, the 2012 has tons of tannin, acidity and overall structure. In 2012, the blend is 72% Cabernet Franc and 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, both from the Summit Block at Oakville Ranch, a beautifully exposed hilltop parcel farmed by Phil Coturri.