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Saturday, December 26, 2015

2006 Keenan Mernet Reserve

Checking in on the development of this vintage,  I figured it would be a bit young (and it is). But after a full decant and around 8 hours of air, there's a very pleasing glimpse of what the future holds. 
This is an old school California Bordeaux blend (50% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon,  25% Cabernet Franc) made from Spring Mountain fruit with big tannins that need 10 to 15 years to mellow and for the sweet spot in the drinking window to open. I like that traditional approach. (Perhaps from the influence of Nils Venge as consulting winemaker)...
Excellent mountain fruit, but it's the nose that really lights this rocket after long aeration. Complex aromatics with tobacco and scorched earth. Analogy is usually drawn to St. Emilion, however I get parallels with Pessac Leognan.
Will try this again in 2021 with great expectations  :)