We’ve reviewed many Clif Family wines over the past few years. This Napa Valley producer has been on a roll lately, with big reds and vibrant whites that will please just about any wine lover. Last year, the 2015 Clif Family Petite Sirah landed the #3 spot on our Top 25 Wines of 2018 list. It was pretty stunning, and we were looking forward to comparing to this year’s version. It’s always fun to see how wine changes from year to year, and how winemakers treat grapes from the same vineyards differently depending on what Mother Nature gives them.
In this case the winemaker is Laura Barrett, who we’ve been following for years. She is a perfectionist, a meticulous wine maker with a vision and an unwillingness to compromise on that. What you get with one of Laura’s wines is exactly what she meant you to experience. Nothing is left to chance.
You can read more about the 2015 Petite Sirah by clicking here. That wine was all about dark berries, caramel and rich, layered texture. Let’s see what 2016 had in store:
Wine: 2016 Clif Family Petite Sirah
Winery Location: St.Helena, Napa Valley, CA
Tasted By: Neil & Cheri Date: April 2019
Tasting Notes: The color is a dark, deep purple. It is opaque. The nose is full of black plum, with an herb crusted, roast beef aroma that is incredible. This is very herbaceous, and very different from the 2015. On the palate it is full bodied, with great balance, firm tannins that promise a long life ahead, and a really full mid-palate. Waves of dark fruit roll in, along with a bit of berry. Coffee nuances are also present. This is built for a big piece of beef, and for cellaring as it will last a long time. Another excellent wine, but so different than the previous vintage.
Price Point – $45 from the winery, less as a club member.
Would We Buy It? – We would. Very different than the 2015, but excellent in its own way. If you like big reds, you’ll like this.
Laura just keeps making great wine. We’re very happy about that.
A votre santé!
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