One of the six “Napa Valley Super-seconds” according to Robert M. Parker and Antonio Galloni. A Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc from barrels not culled for the flagship cuvées.
Review
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Vinous (Nov. 2013)
Review by Antonio Galloni
Rating: (91)
VIEWBlankiet’s Prince of Hearts Paradise Hills Vineyard is absolutely impeccable. Bright, floral and juicy, the 2011 impresses for its sense of proportion and harmony. Sweet spices, rose petals and raspberries flow through to the finish. The 2011 isn’t a huge wine, but it is without question one of the most delicious, pleasurable reds of the year, especially within its price range. The 2011 is 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and drops of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.
— Antonio Galloni, November 2013Grapes Variety: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon/21% Merlot/2% Cabernet Franc/1% Petit Verdot
Producer commentary
Claude and Katherine Blankiet spared no expense in making the best 2011s possible, and the results bear that out. Readers might enjoy this video, which was shot during the 2011 harvest. Among the 2011s, I can’t ignore the entry-level Prince of Hearts, which is one of the best Napa Valley wines in its price range. Overall, the 2011s are delicate, perfumed and impeccably balanced. The 2012s are also fabulous – readers may wish to watch videos from the archive of the 2012 harvest and a tasting of the 2012s shortly after bottling. Blankiet fans will note a new wine, the 100% Cabernet Sauvignon Mythicus, which may become a permanent addition. I also had a chance to taste a few 2013s from tank. The transformation that has taken place at Blankiet over the last few years under the direction of Denis and May-Britt Malbec is remarkable.
