Region: Sonoma County, California

Composition: 90% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 4% Malbec

History: French for ‘truth’, Vérité reflects their commitment to crafting the most authentic expression of the vineyard. Simply put, but profound in its intent, they are dedicated to producing red wines of style and substance using traditional methods and the finest fruit from mountain vineyards throughout Sonoma County. The Vérité Estate is located in the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountain range at the southern tip of Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley. This unique location is just north of the confluence of the Chalk Hill and Knights Valley appellations, an area know for superior soil, climate, and potential to express a strong sense of terroir.

Tasting notes: 2021 La Muse radiates a luminous ruby-violet core, ringed by a thin violet meniscus. Possessing both vibrance and suppleness, the nose reveals bright aromatics of crunchy blackberry and cranberry, contrasted by rich caffè macchiato, English toffee, toasted vanilla, and warm baking spices from elevage in French oak. The dichotomy evolves further on the palate, where the fruit takes on a palpable richness, countered by brisk tannins and focused acidity. The finish is satisfyingly long, marked by ample fruit, mouth-watering acidity, and crushed stone minerality. Reminiscent of other highly structured vintages in their infancy, 2021 La Muse will age for many decades.

99pts, James Suckling