2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block
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Carter's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block showcases the more floral, savory side of Cabernet Sauvignon. This site is on Soda Canyon Road, far from the tenderloin of Napa Valley where Carter draws the fruit for his other wines. Firm tannins give the 2012 much of its energy, while grilled herbs, crushed flowers and dark red/black stone fruits are all layered into the super expressive finish. A healthy dose of Merlot (20%) rounds out the blend.
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Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
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The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block is a dark, Gothic-like, supple-textured, rich, stunning wine boasting abundant notes of barbecue spice, forest floor, black and blue fruits and a hint of truffles. Full-bodied, dense and rich, it is another stellar effort from Mark Carter, whose terrific line-up of 2012s stands out even in this great vintage. Drink the 2012 Coliseum Block over the next 15-20 years.
Bright, deep ruby. Very ripe blackberry, blueberry, bitter chocolate and creosote flavors show an almost port-like quality. Sweet, plush and large-scaled, but with a distinctly savory element giving adding another dimension to the black fruit and bitter chocolate flavors. The tarry nuance comes back on the long finish, which features building tannins and strong underlying spine.