The 2014 Larkmead Vineyard LMV Salon Proprietary Red is a captivating and complex wine that showcases the best of California winemaking. With a deep red color that shimmers in the glass, this wine is a true beauty to behold. The nose is filled with an enticing blend of blackcurrants, forest floor, allspice, and soy, accompanied by notes of crushed rock and wet gravel minerality. The aromas are further enhanced by a touch of cedar, creating a symphony of scents that is both elegant and inviting.
On the palate, the LMV Salon reveals flavors of blackberry, plum, and currant, intertwined with hints of savory herbs and spice. The wine is full-bodied and luscious, with a fleshy and succulent texture that coats the tongue. The tannins are well-integrated and provide a pleasant structure to the wine, while the balanced acidity adds freshness and vibrancy.
According to renowned wine critic Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, the 2014 LMV Salon is a "bigger boy" with 14.9% alcohol content, but its grace and finesse are not compromised. This wine is meant to be enjoyed now, but it also has the potential to age beautifully for the next two decades.
Other esteemed publications such as Wine Spectator and James Suckling have also praised this wine. Wine Spectator notes that while strong oak is initially dominant, it eventually gives way to the rich flavors of blackberry, plum, currant, and anise. James Suckling highlights the blueberry, licorice, and gunpowder aromas, as well as the wine's fine tannins and savory finish. Decanter underscores the wine's complexity, mentioning bitter chocolate, burnt sage, and dusty red and black fruits in its bouquet.
The 2014 Larkmead Vineyard LMV Salon Proprietary Red is a true gem from the Napa Valley. With its impeccable balance, refined flavors, and potential for aging, it is a wine that will delight both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.