2011 Cliff Lede Cabernet Sauvignon Moondance Dream
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Tasting notes
(100% estate, from the Poetry and Twin Peaks Vineyards in 2011, the former a steep, west-facing vineyard east of the Silverado Trail, the latter on the valley floor surrounding the winery on gravelly loam soil; 87% cabernet, 6% petit verdot, 4% malbec and 3% merlot): Dark red. Licorice, brown spices, fresh herbs and a hint of tomato on the slightly weedy nose. Shows inviting spice and smoke notes but the green component runs through the wine from start to finish. Finishes with fairly substantial tannins and notes of menthol and herbs. I'm not sure there's enough mid-palate fruit here to support a positive evolution in bottle.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Dark plums, mocha, espresso, cloves and new leather meld together in the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Moondance. The style is classic Cliff Lede - layered, voluptuous and all about texture. Here the flavors are intense, dark and brooding. Grilled herbs, graphite, menthol and melted road tar all add character and personality. The firm tannins are going to require some patience, but the wine's balance is terrific.