Jean Laurent, the founder of what’s now known as Markham Vineyards, came visiting from Bordeaux within the 1850s, in the course of the heady days of the California Gold Rush. Laurent’s legacy lives on right here with a loyalty to Bordeaux model blended wines. The present homeowners have re-invigorated this with their dedication to sustainability within the vineyards, in addition to surrounding lands and waterways.
The Altruist wine proudly proclaims it’s “Sustainably Made” on its entrance label. It’s a easy Merlot-based wine, a Bordeaux-style mix made with the area’s conventional grapes. I opened this bottle to honor the passing of a Bordeaux-based pal with the identical title – who has nothing to do with this winery, nevertheless it is a beautiful, Bordeaux-style strategy to commemorate him.
The wine has aromas of cassis, white flowers and menthol. Tobacco and black cherry take part on the palate. There’s a cheap quantity of acidity, together with tannins which are daring however not intrusive, which arrive on the end-palate and persist all through the still-fruity end.
WHO: Markham Napa Valley Vineyards
WHAT: 68% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petite Verdot, 5% Malbec, 5% Cabernet Franc
WHERE: Napa Valley, California
HOW MUCH: $28
RATING: 91
