Review by Antonio Galloni
Rating: (93)
Yountville, Napa Valley, United States
Drinking window: 2013 – 2021
The Merlot – based 2011 Rive Droite Paradise Hills Vineyard is one of the silkiest, most polished wines readers will find in this vintage. A sweet, intensely floral, Pinot – inflected bouquet melds into small red berries, flowers, mint, licorice and spices. Th e style is medium – bodied and supremely graceful, with layers of fruit that flesh out beautifully in the glass. Violets, lavender and rose petals linger on the sublime, layered finish. The 2011 has really come together nicely since I last tasted it this pas t s pring. The blend is 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc.
— Antonio Galloni, November 2013
Grapes Variety: 92% Merlot/8% Cabernet Franc
Producer commentary
Claude and Katherine Blankiet spared no expense in making the best 2011s possible, and the results bear that out. 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 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.
