CLOS DU VAL, JOLI VAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON
NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA 2021
Why Buy: Clos du Val launched its reputation at the famed “Judgment of Paris," where its 1972 Cabernet turned critical heads and, along with a handful of other Napa Valley pioneers, set the region on its glittering path. This bottle shares that esteemed pedigree, and was crafted by a winemaker who comes to the estate from Cakebread and Dominus. It also was made with fruit from a 2019 vintage that some Napa watchers have deemed an epic or legacy harvest. It's a pleaser and a charmer of a Cabernet: powerful, but smooth; bold, but balanced. And if you're wondering how we're able to bring you such an excellent Napa Cabernet for such a low price – just under $45 a bottle – well, read on ...
The Story: Clos du Val continues to reinvent itself, and the latest incarnation of this historic Stags Leap District property bears not just watching, but supporting. But to take you back to the beginning … Even among the free spirits of Napa, Clos du Val was a free spirit. It distanced itself from the growing competition by favoring wines of elegance and finesse, with higher proportions of Merlot in its blends than was common at that time. These days, Clos du Val is not that same youthful free spirit, but the spirit of invention continues on at this proud pioneer. A new owner, Olav Goelet, has installed a new winemaker with a stellar resume, Carmel Greenberg, and declared a return to the label's roots, as a maker of Cabernet in a more classical style. The change has already begun to pay off. "We're like a start-up company," Greenberg told Wine Spectator, "but one that is [more than] 50 years old, which is kind of cool."
Our Tasting Notes: The winemaking emphasis on freshness and energy is evident both on the nose and at first sip. Which isn't to say that this drinks young, not at all – simply that it has a vitality that is irresistible and compelling. We also were struck by its considerable balance and finesse. It doesn't stint on size, or richness, but those qualities are never permitted to dominate, making for a wine that feels proportional, elegant, and even Old World.
Specs: Cabernet Sauvignon is predominant, with a smaller percentage of Merlot for rounding and softening.
ABV: 14.5%
What to Pair It With: Pan-seared duck with kumquats; roast chicken with tarragon; a board of ripe, soft cheeses.
Fun Fact: Ronald Searle is considered one of the preeminent illustrators of our era, along with the great New Yorker artist Saul Steinberg, and Clos du Val featured in a number of his cheeky wine posters, still sought-after by collectors today.
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source directly from the estate, so rest assured: your wines will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Order yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Fall 2024. With the supply chain issues that we are seeing globally, there may be some unforeseen delays which could affect the ETA. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, MI, NY, or TN. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Tuesday, June 4th, 2024.