Larkmead Vineyards Firebelle

Winery	Larkmead Vineyards
Region	Napa Valley
Appellation	Napa Valley
Type	Red Wine
Varietal	Merlot blend
Vineyard Size	110 acres
Soil	Pleasantan Loam (Clay)
Vineyard Orientation	South
Average Age of Vines	25 years
Farming Practice	Conventional
Maturation	French oak aging; 18 months, 66% new
Vintage	2016

Calistoga has long been famous for its Merlot production and Larkmead gladly continues that legacy. Historically a multi-variety blend, Firebelle has the soft, plush texture of Merlot, but with some added structure from its companion Bordeaux varieties. Merlot at Larkmead, planted on rich loam soils full of clay and gravel, also tends to act a bit like Cabernet. Knowing this, the wine is allowed to express its density, weight, and power while maintaining its attractive aroma and flavor profiles.

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96pts James Suckling– 2016 vintage

FOR THE 2016 VINTAGE
Attractive aromas and flavors of black olives and plums. Medium body, firm and silky tannins and a juicy finish. Nice, linear tannins. Turns chewy and muscular. Precise and focused. Give it some time. Drink in 2022

94pts Vinous – Antonio Galloni– 2016 vintage

FOR THE 2016 VINTAGE
The 2016 Firebelle is dense, pliant and super-expressive, with terrific depth and textural resonance. Today, the Firebelle shows more floral and savory notes than it did earlier in the year. Even so, the 2016 is vibrant, focused and full of character. The firm tannins need time to soften, but there is plenty to look forward to.