Community Tasting Note
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csimm wrote:
December 15, 2017 - Barrel samples (Cabernet Sauvignon):
2017 Myriad Empyrean GIII
2017 Myriad Three Twins
2017 Myriad Round Pond
2017 Scarlett
Huge noses on all of them, especially the Scarlett and GIII. All wines were obviously teeming with wild, energetic flavors. Lots of fruit; deep, opaque crimson purple colors in the glass; excellent viscosity; huge mouthfeel.
Clearly a lot to sort out, but well on their ways to their respective successes in the coming years. And most importantly, absolutely no detectable smoke taint whatsoever on the lots picked during/post wildfires.3 people found this helpful 4,071 views
4 Comments
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TXRDW commented:
12/25/17, 6:49 AM - Great note, especially on the issue of smoke taint. I suspect the smart winemakers will go out of their way to promote barrel tastings for their 2017’s, or at least the winemakers who have confidence regarding this issue. I certainly will be looking at CT, and notes like yours, prior to most of my 2017 purchases.
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csimm commented:
12/25/17, 8:42 AM - The smoke taint issue is concerning of course. There is a bit more discussion on the comments thread on the 2017 Myriad Round Pond note regarding smoke taint. Like you said, confident wineries should be making whatever assurances possible to their customer base that it's not an issue (or it was an issue and they dumped the fruit). The problem with smoke taint is that it can supposedly surface and/or resurface once in bottle. Many wineries picked before the fires (which is good obviously), but then later had problems with power once the fruit was in tank. Other wineries (a number of wineries I buy from) still had lots unpicked in prime sites (e.g.: To Kalon). So I'm just hoping they are transparent about their process and their true issues with the certain wines with probable/possible smoke taint. The consumer needs to make an informed choice and it's also incumbent on the wineries to be 100% honest and not pull this whole "oh that's not smoke taint you're tasting...that's just quality toast from the barrel..." Most consumers who are even half paying attention can tell the difference.
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TXRDW commented:
12/25/17, 9:09 AM - I agree that the wineries should be transparent. I suspect that the decision makers follow CT closely and they know it would be devastating for any vineyard to put out a tainted wine (even unwittingly) and then not have a liberal refund policy. CT comments and reviews would be unforgiving and goodwill (which sustains price points) would be harmed. In any case, the 2017 vintage still makes me nervous.
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csimm commented:
12/25/17, 12:34 PM - Agreed regarding the influence from CT, especially with high-end, small production wineries. Hopefully that'll help to keep things in check. Word will get out fast if a producer is peddling flawed wine for sure. Happy holidays!