Morlet Family 2008 Mon Chevalier

Crafted from the sun-drenched slopes of Knights Valley, near Calistoga, the Morlet Family 2008 Mon Chevalier is a testament to the meticulous winemaking techniques and the unique terroir of this exceptional vineyard, dedicated to their son, Paul Morlet. In the glass, it presents a dark red hue with a touch of purple. The aromatic profile is intense and intricate, offering a symphony of red, black, and blue berries, interwoven with nuances of blueberries, graphite, wet river rocks, licorice, fresh blond tobacco, and a subtle hint of lavender. On the palate, this full-bodied wine mirrors the complexity of the nose, showcasing rich yet rounded tannins and remarkable intensity. The hillside terroir, characterized by loamy, well-drained, and rocky volcanic soil, combines with the sunny mountain climate, resulting in a harmonious ensemble. The classical aromatic complexity leads to a very long and elegant finish, promising aging potential for decades. Mon Chevalier is a collectible wine that, with a few years of cellaring, beautifully expresses the distinctive character of this special vineyard.

Robert Parker - 95 Points

"Composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and tiny amounts of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Malbec from the Morley estate vineyard, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Mon Chevalier may be the finest wine I have ever tasted from Knight’s Valley. Aromas of white chocolate, spring flowers, licorice, charcoal and black currants make for a provocative as well as intense aromatic display. With a voluptuous texture, tremendous opulence, sensational purity and depth, this 2008 is slightly more evolved than the two Oakville offerings. Brilliant winemaking and meticulous attention to detail in the vineyard and winery have resulted in a prodigious effort. Drink it over the next 15-20 years."

Antonio Galloni - 92+ Points

"(15.6% alcohol; blended with 8% cabernet franc, 3% merlot, 2% malbec and 1% petit verdot): Full ruby-red. Pungent mineral lift to the aromas of cassis and cola. The supplest and sweetest of this trio of 2008s today but the least complex, with a slightly grapey mountain intensity to its cassis, dark chocolate and licorice flavors. Plenty ripe, but the tannins here are less refined than those in Morlet's cabernets from Oakville. This cooler site enjoys long hang time, notes Morlet."