2015 Colgin Red IX Estate
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Tasting notes
The 2015 IX Estate is superb. Complex and dynamic in the glass, the 2015 is so expressive. Black cherry, gravel, incense, tobacco and scorched earth soar from the glass. At ten years of age, the 2015 is just starting to hit its stride. This is an impressive showing.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
Lastly, the 2015 IX Estate is reminiscent of a hypothetical blend of the 2013 and 2014, with a ripe, sexy, exuberant style carrying loads of blue and black fruits as well as notes of tobacco, iron, truffly earth, and lead pencil. A blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 15% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot, it’s full-bodied and has loads of up-front fruit, ripe tannins, and a gorgeous finish. As with the 2012 and 2014, it has this incredible lift and elegance and already offers pleasure. Nevertheless, I’d give bottles another 3-4 years if possible, and this will evolve for 30-35 years in cold cellars.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot. Very concentrated crimson thanks to the very small, drought-affected, highly extractable berries, ‘We work so hard to hold on to freshness.’ They do sell off some bulk wine. 20 acres planted, 16 for this blend and 4 to Syrah. Definitely more concentrated and burly than the 2016. Sweeter but still with some dried herbs and a bit more obvious alcohol. Less elegant. Strong vintage variation. A bit hot on the end. A little dry tannin on the finish too. Not as ready as the 2016. (JR)
This is a broad-shouldered wine, underscoring the richness of the vintage. But it is also bright and fresh with a light bitter and hazelnut character on the finish. Full-bodied, focused and textured with a dusty tannin mouthfeel. Tangy and long at the finish. Enticingly fruity.
About the producer
Colgin has been producing some of the finest Cabernet blends in Napa Valley since its first vintage in 1992. Within just 13 years, it was recognised as one of the top 50 wine estates in the world by Robert Parker.