2017 Firebelle Proprietary Red
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Tasting notes
The 2017 Firebelle, Larkmead's Merlot-based wine, is laced with sweet red cherry, spice, mint, cedar, tobacco and orange peel. Medium in body, silky and nicely lifted, the 2017 is decidedly understated for Larkmead. I would prefer to drink it over the next handful of years, give or take, because of its mid-weight structure.
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Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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A blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2017 Firebelle (White Label) was aged in French oak barrels, 70% new. Medium garnet-purple in color, it delivers understated notions of stewed plums, boysenberries and dried mulberries with touches of fruitcake, potpourri, fallen leaves and dusty soil. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is filled with juicy black fruit and earthy flavors, framed by judiciously extracted, rounded tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing with an herbal lift. 583 cases were made.
Despite its mid-weight structure, the 2017 Firebelle packs a huge punch. Savory, bold and super-expressive, the Firebelle has a lot to offer. At this stage, the Firebelle is surprisingly austere, in the classical sense of the term, something that is not unusual in 2017.