Clos LaChance 22 Pirates Red Blend 2018
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Wilfred
Wong
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22 Pirates was created to employ the finest Rhone Varietals from premier wine-growing regions throughout California. The wine is a distinct representation of the harmony and balance that can be created when using all or some of the 22 Varietals. Each Vintage’s unique blend offers a bold structure of powerful fruit accompanied by an elegant palate appeal from the use of only the finest French Oak. Small batch fermentations coupled with extended oak aging give rise to a complex and dynamic wine that stands alone or can be paired with an exquisite meal.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The 2018 Clos LaChance 22 Pirats Red Blend strolls nicely into the Rhône Valley personality now common amongst Central Coast California producers. TASTING NOTES: This wine offers aromas and flavors of black fruit, savory spices, and plenty of oak. Serve it with slowly-braised meat dishes. (Tasted: October 10, 2021, San Francisco, CA)
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Wilfred
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California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!