2003 Larkmead Firebelle
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Tasting notes
(54% merlot, 31% cabernet sauvignon and 15% malbec) Bright ruby-red. Aromas of currant, red cherry, mocha and cola. Creamy, ripe and fat, with redcurrant, spice and mocha flavors. Finishes with dusty tannins that will not get in the way of drinking this wine now.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2003 Firebelle (54% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Malbec) exhibits a beautiful perfume of spring flowers interwoven with spice box, mocha, black cherry liqueur, and a hint of cassis. Elegant, dense, medium to full-bodied, supple, and voluptuous, it should be enjoyed over the next 7-10 years. As a postscript, proprietor Cam Baker told me the late Andre Tchelistcheff thought the four finest vineyards in Napa Valley circa 1960 were Beaulieu, Inglenook, Beringer, and Larkmead, so there is some sound history behind this estate. It’s good to see this famous name be resurrected. Tel. (707) 942-6605; Fax (707) 942-6019
(55% merlot, 30% cabernet sauvignon and 15% malbec) Good medium ruby. Sexy black raspberry and black licorice aromas. Fine-grained, spicy flavors of dark berries and licorice. Lively and harmonious in the mouth. Finishes with slightly dusty tannins but avoids the tartness shown by the 2002 merlo t. Smith does not crush the berries, and he feels this has a lot to do with retaining brightness of fruit.