Clovis Point 2007 Vintner’s Selection Merlot
Clovis Point is a North Fork producer that is quickly pushing itself onto the region’s short list of premium producers. The white wine portfolio is limited, but if you’re talking merlot and other red wines, Clovis Point is already on my must-visit list when people email me asking where they should taste.
This wine, their Clovis Point 2007 Vinter’s Selection Merlot ($35) is a blend of 86% merlot, 6.5% cabernet sauvignon, 4% cabernet franc, 2.5% syrah and 1% petit verdot, is one that should put the winery on the map in a more substantial way.
Complex and still young, the nose shows layers of plum, blackberry, black cherry and blueberry with notes of chocolate, tobacco, and sweet herbs.
On the fuller side of medium bodied, the palate is chewy with ripe, still-unfurling tannins that should give this wine longevity. Plum dominates the palate, with blueberry, blackberry and cherry sprinkled with peppery spice, cocoa powder and hints of vanilla.
The finish lingers nicely, ending on a plummy, smokey note. The star here is the structure, which is substantial and yet approachable at the same time. You won’t be disappointed with the results if you tuck a couple bottles into your cellar for a few years, though.
Producer: Clovis Point
AVA: North Fork of Long Island
ABV: 13.5%
Price: $35*
(4 out of 5, Outstanding and Delicious, Highly Recommended)
Uh oh, the secret’s out! I’ve been a big CP fan since randomly wandering into their tasting room back in 2009.
Glad to see Clovis Point got some love. Their reds are great, plus they are still serving up the 2005′s, 2006′s, and 2007′s so they are all really drinking well. I’ve been a member for a while. I agree with jbh. I’m selfish enough to hope they don’t get on the bus route!
Thanks Lenn for the kind words. We are proud of the work we have been doing. JBH and Steve: Don’t worry, we enjoy being under the radar and won’t ever be on the bus route. Hal