Blankiet Red Blend ‘Rive Droite’ 2019

Introduction

Blankiet Estate is nestled above Yountville on the western foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains. The Paradise Hills Vineyard is carved on steep hillsides just above the famed Dominus Estate Napanook parcel that was originally planted in 1838 by Yountvilles founder, George C. Yount.

With an ideal eastern exposure, the land is bathed with morning sun and benefits from natural shade in the hot afternoons, and cool breezes from the San Pablo Bay flow constantly across the land. Its located on three volcanic knolls where soil profiles vary from deeply fractured rocks and volcanic ash, to thick clay deposits, meaning each parcel is distinguished by a unique subsoil and microclimate.

At just 6.5 hectares in size its a remarkably small site, yet the incredible complexity of the terroir allows for three distinct wines, each of a singular style. This is an Estate at the top of its game. Combined with the very talented winemaker Graeme MacDonald and owner Claude Blankiets attention to detail, is truly worthy of an exploration.

97 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

The 2019 Merlot Rive Droite is more broad and opulent, with a sexy, full-bodied profile loaded with notions of ripe black cherries, currants, loamy earth, chocolate, and hints of tobacco. I love its balance, it has great tannins, and one heck of a finish.

97 Points – Vinous

The 2019 Rive Droite Paradise Hills Vineyard is dense, plush and wonderfully expressive, with terrific freshness for the year. Inky dark fruit, chocolate, lavender and licorice are all amped up. This is an unusually powerful, dark vintage for the Rive Droite.