2017 Viader Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc Blend
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Tasting notes
The flagship 2017 Viader Proprietary Red Blend is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon yet includes 31% Cabernet Franc, with the high Cabernet Franc component always being the defining feature of this cuvée. There are roughly 800 cases produced. Its deep purple color is followed by a complex bouquet of red and black currants, iodine, leafy herbs, chocolate, and tobacco. This carries to a medium to full-bodied wine that has a rounded, mouthfilling texture, solid mid-palate depth, and the hallmark chewy tannins of the vintage. It's a solid, outstanding wine from this family-run estate that will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and keep for 15 years or more.
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Red Blend Viader is an attractive wine, even if it is a touch lean, especially on the mid-palate. It will be interesting to see if time in bottle helps the wine gain a bit more flesh. Today, my impression is that its recent bottling, along with the high percentage of Franc (31%), contributes to the wine's somewhat compact feel. There is good energy and brightness in the flavors, though, and a good bit of potential, too. Mocha, wild flowers, cinnamon and sweet red berry fruit all open up with time in the glass.
The 2017 Red Blend Viader is made up of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon and 31% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it sings of plum preserves, dried mulberries and raspberry preserves with hints dried herbs, underbrush and pencil shavings plus a waft of lavender. The palate is full-bodied, firm and chewy with a good fruit core and slightly rustic finish.