Experience the artistry of Napa Valley with the 2018 Robert Foley "The Griffin," an exceptional red wine blend crafted to delight your senses. This bold yet balanced wine combines the richness of Merlot, Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Charbono, creating a velvety texture with layered flavors of ripe raspberry, blackberry, and a subtle floral hint. Boasting vibrant acidity and gentle tannins, it delivers a long, smooth finish accented by a whisper of espresso. Perfectly suited for aging or enjoying now, The Griffin is a testament to Robert Foley's winemaking mastery, earning his esteemed reputation as "The God of Cabernet".
Process & Profile
The Griffin is a masterful blend of grapes, highlighting the best that Napa Valley has to offer. The 2018 vintage comprises 28% Merlot, 19% Petite Sirah, 14% Charbono, 12% Malbec, 11% Syrah, 10% Petit Verdot, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. Each varietal is carefully cultivated and blended to achieve a harmonious balance of bright fruit flavors and structured elegance. Robert Foley's meticulous attention to detail in both viticulture and winemaking ensures that The Griffin evolves gracefully, offering immediate enjoyment while possessing the ability to age elegantly for years to come.
Tasting Notes
The Griffin tantalizes with a bouquet of red and black berry aromas, rose petals, and a whisper of vanilla. On the palate, it delivers bold, rich flavors of dark berries, black cherries, and hints of mocha and spice, coupled with a smooth, velvety texture. Gently gripping tannins and a touch of espresso add depth to the experience, while the wine's full body is balanced with liveliness, ensuring a long, satisfying finish.
What Makes It Special
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Innovative Blend: The unique combination of claret and Rhône-rooted varietals creates a wine that is both approachable and complex, ideal for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
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Expert Craftsmanship: Robert Foley, often called "The God of Cabernet," brings his unparalleled winemaking expertise to every bottle of The Griffin, ensuring exceptional quality.
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Aging Potential: While delicious in its youth, The Griffin demonstrates remarkable aging potential, evolving to reveal even more nuances over time.
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Versatile Pairing: Its bold and layered profile makes it a versatile choice for a range of culinary pairings.
How to Enjoy
Robert Foley Griffin pairs beautifully with grilled red meats, lamb dishes, hearty stews, and aged cheeses. Serve at a temperature of 60–65°F to best showcase its rich aromatics and complex flavors. This wine is perfect for celebrations, dinners, or as a show-stopping centerpiece for wine enthusiasts looking to explore the best of Napa Valley blends.
Savor The Griffin on its own or with food, and enjoy a wine that masterfully melds tradition and innovation in every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the blend composition of Robert Foley Griffin?
The 2018 vintage of Robert Foley Griffin is a blend of 28% Merlot, 19% Petite Sirah, 14% Charbono, 12% Malbec, 11% Syrah, 10% Petit Verdot, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. Previous vintages may differ slightly in blend percentages, reflecting the winery's dynamic approach to winemaking.
What are the flavor and aroma profiles of The Griffin?
The Griffin offers vibrant red berry fruit aromas and flavors, with a touch of floral hints. Its medium palate is rich, with balanced acidity and smooth tannins that linger in the long finish. Notes of espresso and bright fruit also add complexity to the tasting experience.
Where is Robert Foley Griffin produced?
This red blend comes from Robert Foley Vineyards, located in California, with its origins deeply tied to Napa Valley winemaking traditions.
What is the alcohol content of The Griffin?
The Griffin has an alcohol content of 15.5%, which reflects its bold and rich character.
How long can I age The Griffin?
The Griffin is delicious in its youth but is crafted to age beautifully for many years when stored under appropriate conditions. The claret and Rhône-rooted varietals in its blend contribute to its aging potential.
Who is Robert Foley, and what is his winemaking background?
Robert Foley, also known as "The God of Cabernet," has been a winemaker since 1977. He is a UC Davis graduate with degrees in viticulture and enology and has over 40 vintages of highly rated wines to his credit. His expertise and passion are evident in each bottle produced by Robert Foley Vineyards.
Is The Griffin food-friendly?
Yes, The Griffin is a versatile and approachable wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, thanks to its balanced acidity, rich fruit flavors, and gentle tannins.
What is the meaning behind the name "The Griffin"?
The Griffin refers to a mythical creature on the Foley family crest, symbolizing strength and valor. This reflects the bold and robust character of the wine.