2021 Girard Artistry, Napa Valley, USA (750ml)

WINEMAKER’S NOTES:

The 2021 Artistry is a complex and sophisticated wine. The nose reveals aromas of cassis, black cherry swirling with aromas of vanilla, espresso and tobacco. The palate is rich and full-bodied with flavors of ripe, lush black fruits, hints of chocolate and savory spice. Firm and refined tannins framed by well-integrated oak provide structure and balance leading to a lingering finish.

Blend: 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Malbec, 8% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc

TASTING NOTES:

Savory, sweet bay and tobacco notes peek out from behind a core of well-steeped blackberry and black currant fruit, while the grippy, tarry structure asserts itself through the finish. A touch burly in the end, but cellaring may tame that somewhat. For fans of the style. Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.

– Wine Spectator, 93 pts.

Attractive nose with wild berries, currants, mulberries, dried herbs and hints of tar. Its medium- to full-bodied with chewy tannins. Textural with a rich core of creamy blackberries and some chocolate flakes, too. Focused finish with excellent length.

– James Suckling, 92 pts.

A blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Malbec, 8% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc, Girard’s 2021 Artistry Red Wine constitutes a solid value in the realm of Napa Valley. There’s an attractive mix of cherries and black cherries on the nose, it’s medium to full-bodied on the palate and the tannins are supple, making the wine easy to drink already. There’s plenty of fruit character, some loam-like earthy scents and decent length, framed by soft, dusty tannins.

– Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, 91 pts.