a completely different blend from the winery's 2006 ciel, this reflects chris camarda's growing enchantment with cabernet franc, which is now 45% of the blend. most of the rest is merlot—a right bank style. the concept works. it captures the sleek minerality of the site, and puts the fruit into tight, laser-like focus. the wine seems almost crystalline—sharp-edged and reflective, with penetrating angles and offset flavors.
Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Wine