2002 Robert Foley Charbono
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Tasting notes
Medium ruby. Black cherry, licorice, herbs and earth; at once wild and grapey. Then very ripe but given brightness and energy by strong acidity. There's a spiciness here that suggests oak, but no new wood was used to age this wine. Very lush but not at all thick or heavy. Finishes firmly tannic and brisk. Fascinating wine: winemaker Bob Foley told me this parcel of vines, planted in 1982, represents 8 out of a total of 40 charbono acres still bearing fruit in California.
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Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
It will be nearly impossible for readers to find a better Charbono than this 2002. Exuberant, rustic, full-flavored fruit may fall short on complexity, but the wine delivers plenty of body along with loads of earthy, peppery, blackberry and black currant fruit. This pure, savory Charbono is meant to be drunk over the next 7-8 years, although I suspect it will last for two decades. Tel. (707) 965-2669