This is the first of this producer for me. In the notes I have read, it seems like Linne Calodo has as many detractors as proponents, and I can understand that considering the high alcohol level (15.9% for the Cherry Red) and degree of fruit extraction. Put me in the proponent camp. The CR is a blend of 64% zin with the balance equal parts of mourvedre and syrah. Although the wine has massive flavor, it is light on the palate and not fatiguing at all. Also, the alcohol is hardly detectable. On entry this is all about bright red cherry fruit with some pepper and brush. It seems a little young and tight, but it is undeniably seductive and enjoyable now. And for such a monster, it is elegant and silky with a nice, nuanced finish.
This is among the most memorable wines I have had so far this year.
Nice note. I had a Leona’s 2006 a couple of weeks ago, also mostly Zin; I would have written pretty much the same note about it as your Cherry Red. I like the LC wines, but dropped them off my list about 6 months ago as I found them too pricey, available locally, and quite frankly, too many similar wines with different labels (confusing).
I agree the prices are getting out of whack. I am going to stick it out through the 2007 releases and then revisit whether I want to stay in the club. In the meantime I’ll try a few more 2006s since they seem pretty approachable.
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