VeriteLaMuse2013

Vérité was founded in 1997 by the late visionary Jess Jackson and long-time Bordeaux vigneron, Pierre Seillan. In just over 20 years, the winery has managed to forge a reputation for itself as one of the most consistent producers of elite level fine wine in California. They produce just three wines, La Muse, La Joie and Le Désir, all of which are based on the traditional varieties of Bordeaux.rrLa Muse is an ode to Merlot and is inspired by the rich and powerful, yet incredibly refined wines of Pomerol. From the sensational 2013 vintage it is a blend of 89% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 3% Malbec. It is possibly a candidate for one of the best wines every released by this winery and has near limitless ageing potential. From 4 different vineyards (Alexander Valley, Bennett Valley, Chalk Hill and Knights Valley) with volcanic soils, varying altitudes and vines that are the same age (approximately 25 for Alexander Valley, 11 for Bennett Valley, 15 for Chalk Hill and 20 for Knights Valley), “Museâ€?from Verite is a red produced in the Sonoma County appellation of California. The wine is matured in new French oak barrels, for 15 months on average.rrWeather:The 2013 growing season was truly a perfect one in Sonoma County. Very little rain during the winter, along with careful pruning and work in the vineyard, was key to controlling the energy of the vines. The growing season was ideal in terms of temperature: an absence of excessive heat allowed for very even ripening. In the spring, the moisture in the soil and the temperature permitted the vines to build a beautiful canopy from budbreak to bloom. Moderate, steady sunshine and temperatures throughout the whole season and cooler nights in August helped balance the acidity and tannins. The 2013 vintage must be one of the top five vintages of Vérité. The wines are intended to age over the next 20 years or more. Harvest took place September 3rd through September 17th.â€?Pierre Seillan, VigneronrrTechnical Information:rGrape Varieties: 89% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc & 3% MalbecrVineyards: Alexander Valley, Chalk Hill, Knights Valley & Bennett ValleyrRegion: Sonoma County, CaliforniarAlcohol: 14.3%rrTasting Note: Exceptionally tight on the nose still with creamy lactic oak dominating. The palate is full of dense layered fruit and finely grained tannins. Powerful and still in a tight shell of oak â€?yet there is a coolness and effortlessness to the fruit and tannins that is very attractive, wonderful extraction and a full, rich, opulent mouth-filling finish. â€?Tasted by Alistair Cooper MW