2001 Archipel Red
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Tasting notes
Full ruby-red. Aromas of currant, raspberry, tobacco, mint and herbs. Rich, broad and fairly dry, with flavors of briary red fruits, pepper, mocha, tobacco and flowers. The brooding flavors are typical of Mayacamas mountain fruit, but this wine seems unusually accessible today, with rather sweet, suave tannins.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A serious blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 8% Cabernet Franc from Napa and Sonoma vineyards owned by Jess Jackson, the 2001 Archipel is a wine of formidable intensity. Similar to the Cardinale Napa bottling (although much less expensive), there are 5,600 cases of this deep ruby/purple-colored offering. Big, blackberry and cassis flavors are interwoven with cedar, toasty oak, and spice box. Supple tannin as well as full-bodied flavors suggest it will drink well young, yet age nicely for 10-15 years. (Release date Spring 04) Tel. (800) 296-1952; Fax (707) 431-1261
Good medium ruby. Musky, slightly briary aromas of dark berries, licorice, espresso and menthol. Brooding, dense and rather powerful, with an impression of medicinal austerity. Briary mountain flavors lead to firm tannins. Not at all a sweet style.
About the producer
The winery was the dream of Jess Jackson, the man who founded the incredibly successful Jackson Family Wines. He, however, wanted to produce truly fine wine in Sonoma County.