Review by Antonio Galloni
Rating: (98)
Drinking window: 2022 – 2037
The 2012 Rive Droite Paradise Hills Vineyard is classy and elegant, with the soft contours of Merlot driving the the overall feel. A wine of nearly indescribable finesse, the 2012 is simply exquisite. Silky, aromatic and utterly brilliant, the 2012 possesses terrific energy and vibrancy to match its understated, mid-weight personality. The 2012 is still quite fresh. Readers lucky enough to own it can look forward to another decade of exceptional drinking. Today the 2012 is quite delicate, almost Pinot like, in its nobility.
— Antonio Galloni, May 2024
Deep layers of spices, black cherries, plums, menthol and licorice meld together in the 2012 Rive Droite Paradise Hills Vineyard. Rich, layered and deeply resonant, the 2012 impresses for its voluptuous, sexy personality. Mocha, espresso and grilled herbs all flow through to the finish. Cabernet Franc plays just a minor role in the blend, but its personality comes through loud and clear, especially in the aromatics. The 2012 is 96% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc. This is a fabulous showing from Blankiet. (95-97+ pts)
— Antonio Galloni, November 2013
Grapes Variety: 96% Merlot/4% Cabernet Franc
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 (http://vinousmedia.com/multimedia/blankiet-with-claude-blankiet-and-denis-malbec-jun-2013). 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.
