Charbono Napa Valley

Charbono is one of the almost forgotten grape varieties – almost. According to recent reports, there are now only around 90 acres of this variety left, half of which are in Napa County. The original cuttings were imported to Calistoga in the Napa Valley from the Savoie region in the French Alps around 1890. Its original name was Douce Noir. Charbono was subsequently wiped out in France by an infestation of phylloxera.

This mature Charbono, aged for 20 months in neutral barrels, presents an opaque purplish-red colour and delights with aromas of berry jam, blending red, black and blue berries. Its balanced palate and extremely fine tannins combine with a lively, pleasant acidity that culminates in a long, lingering finish. A beautiful, harmonious and surprisingly light, lively red wine.

This vintage contains a hint of Syrah and Merlot, which adds further complexity.