Newton Claret 2006

Winemaker: Chris Millard
Grape: 43% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot and 3% Syrah
Region: Napa Valley

See other wines from this winery:
Newton Unfiltered Merlot 2005

This winery is very dear to me. Probably because of the approach dr. Su Hua Newton took when creating some of the most recognized wines in Napa. She insisted on the most natural way of crafting her wines – which resulted in the first unfiltered wines in Napa Valley, coming from Newton winery. Peter Newton first created, and than successfully sold another famous brand in Napa, called Sterling vineyards.

When he and his wife Su Hua Newton purchased this unique piece of property in Napa Valley, Mountain Spring, they both marked it with their personalities. Peter’s passion for Victorian gardens, and Su Hua’s Chinese heritage and passion for perfection and. Please read more about Doc. Sue Hua Newton in my blog.

Claret is a part of their Red label line of wines and it’s a proprietary Bordeaux blend. The proportion of each varieties in blend changes every vintage, based on the particular year and taste profile of each grape. The harvest is done by hand, only ripen grapes are picked – which means several passes through the vineyard in a period of 2-3 weeks. Newton only uses natural yeast and the final blend matured in French oak barrels.

Tasting notes:
Take your time and decant this wine. It has a dark ruby red color and beautiful aroma of black cherries, black currant and spice. On the palate it’s a mild, almost creamy structure of blackberries, even dry plum and soft spice. Tannins are velvety and acidity is balanced perfectly with the blend. The longer you decant it, the more structure and layers of flavors you will get. Very serious wine that is a super value around $20.00 retail!