Ramey Claret 2007- Another high-end half bottle value. $16.95 WS93

My wife was out of town this weekend, so I had another perfect opportunity to open a half bottle of wine.  I never thought I would say that less wine is a positive thing, but here we are…  Luckily I had just picked up a 375 of Ramey 2007 Claret that was calling my name tonight.  Dave Ramey is the winemaking genius behind the epic Dominus Cabernets of the 90′s including the 99 point 1994 vintage.  Obviously, he knows what he’s doing.

The 2007 Claret, a blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Syrah, and 2% each of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, is yet another fantastic 2007 Cabernet based blend.  This year, it could be called a Cabernet, but David Ramey uses the “Claret” name because the blend changes every year and doesn’t always meet the 75% minimum required to label a wine with a specific varietal.   I can’t overstate how incredible the 2007 vintage has been for Napa Cabernet.  If you have a favorite label, buy the 2007 vintage while you still can.  This 2007 is Ramey’s entry level Cabernet, which is sort of like an entry level Ferrari.  It’s still REALLY good.

Sweet, somewhat soft, but by no means flabby, this wine is made for early drinking.  Now, when I hear a particular wine is “meant for early drinking”, I usually avoid it.  But don’t let that designation deter you in this case.  Remember, this is a 93 point rated, serious wine.  The 15% Syrah is detectable and adds a nice extra dimension and body to this wine.  Speaking of dimension, the texture, one of David Ramey’s specialties, is the defining characteristic of his 2007 Claret.  It’s silky, smooth and mouth coating, adding immensely to the character of this fantastic value.  If Ramey’s “entry level” wine is this great, I can’t wait to try the rest of his portfolio.  As usual, LA Wine Co. has the lowest price in the country by almost $2/ half bottle!  Of note, the 2006 vintage is still available in full bottles at the insanely low price of $24.95.

Buy Here: 2007 Ramey Claret Napa Valley 375ml $16.95

Wine Spectator 93 points

“Bordeaux-like in its subtlety and restraint, yet rich and flavorful, full-bodied and expansive, with a medley of cedar, currant, cigar box, tar and mineral. Firm and focused, its elegance and refinement are impressive. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2018. 4,500 cases made.”

Wine Advocate 91 points

“There are 4,800 cases of the 2007 Claret, which shrewd consumers should be seeking out. A blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec, it exhibits smoky, licorice, and black currant aromas, suave, velvety, full-bodied flavors, admirable purity and depth, and delicious fruit, all offered in a hedonistic, satisfying style. A top bargain for a Napa Valley Cabernet, it should drink well for a decade or more.

All of David Ramey-s Sonoma Coast, Russian River, and Carneros wines will be reviewed in the February, 2010 issue along with all the other non-Napa Valley wines.”

International Wine Cellar 91 points

“($38; 77% cabernet sauvignon, 15% syrah, and 2% each of merlot, petit verdot, cabernet franc and malbec) Deep ruby. Aromas of blackcurrant, cherry, herbs and tobacco, complicated by a subtle smoky quality. Sweet, smooth and fairly full on the palate, showing ripe red- and blackcurrant and bitter cherry flavors. Elegant in a Bordeaux style, with chewy tannins and good mineral lift. Finishes with a strong echo of red fruits and a suave floral note. This wine saw no new oak.”