The 2014 Blankiet Rive Droite [Merlot] 750 is a distinguished wine hailing from the Paradise Hills Vineyard in Napa, California. Produced by Blankiet and boasting an alcohol content of 14.6%, this Merlot embodies the essence of its North Coast roots.
This vintage is characterized by its deep red color and a closure typical of high-quality wines—a traditional cork. The wine has garnered high praise from professional reviewers, most notably from Vinous, which awarded it an impressive score of 95.
Antonio Galloni of Vinous describes the 2014 Blankiet Rive Droite as "dark, rich and inviting," noting that it "wraps around the palate with pure sensuality and class." Galloni highlights the wine's complex flavor profile, which includes "dark stone fruit, smoke, mocha, and espresso," all of which are seamlessly fused together. He emphasizes that despite its richness, the wine is "not at all heavy," a quality that allows it to "capture the very best the vintage has to offer."
This wine's layered complexity and balanced richness make it a standout choice for those who appreciate a well-crafted Merlot. The 2014 vintage appears to be a testament to Blankiet's meticulous approach to winemaking, showing that they have successfully harnessed the unique characteristics of the Paradise Hills Vineyard.
In summary, the 2014 Blankiet Rive Droite [Merlot] is a remarkable wine that showcases the potential of Napa's terroir. With its rich yet balanced profile and high praise from critics, particularly the 95-point review from Vinous, it stands out as a noteworthy example of California Merlot. This wine is sure to appeal to those seeking a deeply layered, yet elegantly composed red wine.