2008 Gemstone Red Facets of Gemstone
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Tasting notes
(67% cabernet sauvignon, 24% merlot, and 4.5% each petit verdot and cabernet franc): High-toned aromas of blackberry and blueberry liqueur and loam. Sweet, fruity and accessible; rather shapely in light of its easygoing sweetness. Finishes with suave, soft but building tannins. The cabernet franc component provides lift and nuance.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
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The 2008 Facets is showing even better than it did from barrel last year. A blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot and the rest tiny quantities of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc (similar to many Medocs), it exhibits a dark ruby/purple color as well as abundant aromas of sweet white chocolate, black cherries, tobacco leaf, cassis and hints of earth and smoke. Soft with silky tannins, medium to full body and a plush, open-knit style, it is ideal for drinking now and over the next 10-12+ years. Situated in Yountville in the southern Napa Valley, this vineyard was founded by Paul and Suzie Frank and is now owned by Michael and Carol Marks. I have always enjoyed the Gemstone wines for their combination of southern Napa Valley freshness, elegance and perfume backed up by serious richness and intensity. The second wine, Facets, is a selection made by consulting winemaker Philippe Melka. Tel. (707) 944-0944; Fax (707) 945-0235