Fleur Cardinale 2015

The 2015 Fleur Cardinale has a very pure bouquet with red cherries, boysenberry jam and violet aromas that are neatly integrated with the new oak. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and layers of ripe black and red fruit, but fortunately there is the acidity to maintain freshness and the silky finish is very seductive. It will require 4 or 5 years in bottle, but this is a Fleur Cardinale that should age with style.

The 2015 Fleur Cardinale is a blend of 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon matured in 100% new oak barrels for 13 months. Deep garnet-purple in color, it has a nose of fragrant violets, cedar chest and rose hips over a core of chocolate-covered cherries, plum preserves and blueberry pie. The medium to full-bodied palate is rich and plush with plenty of layers and great length.