We had a chance to meet with Roy last week during our visit. We met at the winery and did a barrel tasting of his 2013 and tasted the 2014 from the fermentation tank. We then had lunch and Roy generously brought a bottle of the 2012 which showed beautifully; what a sensual wine it is. There is a lot to be excited about with the next 3 vintages. Makes me glad I took the full allocation with the recent releases. Thanks to Roy for his hospitality.
Many people do not “like” tasting from the fermentation tank, and few have the opportunity, but I love it! Yeah, it’s funky, wild and crazy. It’s difficult (due to its short life there) to get a frame of reference for it, but count me in!
I agree that there is cause for a good feeling about well-cared for Napa Valley 2012, 2013, 2014 Cabernets. Roy and I shared tastes of our 2012s a few weeks ago, and we agree these newly bottled 12s from our Valley are exciting. Producers of all styles from Napa can give a thumbs up!
Tasting from tank is a mouth-puckering experience, to be sure. But it was fun and I’m glad we had a chance to do it.
I had lunch with Roy last week in Napa and he brought his 2012. I’ll also add I thought it was a really well made and delicious wine. Looking forward to receiving the 10s and 11s to see how he did with those.
Michael, Daniel… good seeing you both. It feels really weird, after tasting people on 2010 and 2011 for so long, to only be pouring 2012’s now.