2012 Force Majeure Collaboration Series I Ciel du Cheval Vineyard
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Tasting notes
(aged in 80% new oak, mostly Taransaud; made by Ben Smith of Cadence): Deep ruby-red. Dark berry, cocoa powder and herb aromas are lifted by captivating violet and lavender high notes. Flavors of red fruits, spices and fig come across as riper and more syrupy than the Cadence wines, but subtle herbal and saline nuances provide lift. Finishes with serious, tongue-dusting tannins, a substantial oak element and a faint youthful dryness. A very successful, savory blend but made in a style that Smith describes as "more boisterous" than his own Cadence bottlings.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2012 Collaboration Series I is a rocking blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance an even split of Cab Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Perfumed, lifted and fresh, with notes of spring flowers, mint, graphite, liquid black cherry and raspberry-like fruit, it has full-bodied richness, solid mid-palate depth and plenty of fine tannin. It’s made by Ben Smith and shows his more classic style. Give it 2-5 years in the cellar and enjoy bottles over the following decade or more. I’m being conservative on the drink window and it will evolve for longer.