Another disappointing grand reve and a very interesting fortunate son

Humberto_Dorta · August 5, 2012, 1:30am

2007 Fortunate Son Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Napa Valley (8/4/2012)
Had to drink one to decide on the 08. I really like the nose of roasted beef, currants and some serious black pepper. The palate is full but not overwhelming with more blackpepper, tobacco, some nicely ripe dark fruits and a hint of rasted green peppers that adds rather than detract. Nice savory finish. I’m buying 08

2008 Grand Rêve Vintners / Force Majeure Syrah Collaboration Series III Ciel du Cheval Vineyard - USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Red Mountain (8/3/2012)
Meh. The nose is ripe with blackberries and some beefy notes. The palate is hollow in the middle but otherwise sweet and tasty with some more beefy flavors. I’m not really impressed.

Eric_Werner · August 6, 2012, 12:44am

Humberto, what others from Grand Reve have disappointed you? I have purchased a few, but have yet to have one I love, chalking that up to my preference to some age on my syrahs. I wonder if this just won’t be in my wheelhouse.

Humberto_Dorta · August 6, 2012, 2:11am

Same bottle earlier in the year. I like syrah both young and old. This one just doesnt quite get there for me. I have a couple other bottlings i gotta try before i write them off.

jbray23 · August 6, 2012, 5:15am

I dropped off the Grand Reve list,
The first one I tried (can’t remember which) was great, I really enjoyed it. I purchased about a case more and have drank about half of them, I have not been impressed since. I find them over ripe, lacking depth and strong VA. Saying that I am keeping the rest for the future, maybe all of it’s fruit and stuffing will work itself out.