2012 High Fidelity Red Blend
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Tasting notes
Dark red cherries, plums, spice, menthol, tobacco and cedar are all laced together in the 2012 High Fidelity, Cliff Lede's Merlot-based blend. Cabernet Franc adds an attractive aromatic upper register, but there is no lack of mid-palate depth. Rich and textured to the core, the 2012 offers plenty of near-term appeal. My only critique is that the oak feels a bit overdone, especially on the finish, where the occasional hint of astringency creeps in. High Fidelity is made from a blend of Lede and Abreu fruit.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2012 Proprietary Red Blend High Fidelity is a blend of 64% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Malbec. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by notes of white chocolate and cassis as well as a fleshy, full-bodied mouthfeel, abundant complexity, stunning purity and overall harmony. This brilliant red can be drunk over the next 10-15 years.
Juicy red cherries, plums, rose petals and sweet spices jump from the glass in the 2012 High Fidelity. A sweet, floral, expressive wine, the 2012 stands out for its layered, expressive personality. Today the fruit is singing and the wine is showing beautifully. I imagine the 2012 will be nearly impossible to resist in the near-term. All the elements are in the right place.