Three New World wines that pay homage to the Old

Notice the label on the Castello di Amorosa. That “castle” was built by V. Sattui a few years back in the Napa Valley. Many would argue that this medieval recreation is out of place in the California wine country but few would say that it isn’t a pretty incredible building to visit. Just like going to Disney’s Cinderella’s castle isn’t the same as going to Germany’s Neuschwanstein, it’s still fun to go.
2002 Castello di Amorosa Merlot – USA, California, Napa Valley (12/13/2009)
Strawberry, balsamic, and a touch of eucalyptus. Castello di Amorosa is still more interesting to visit for its architecture than it is for its wines, but I did like this Merlot. (86 pts.)

I don’t know whether the label on the Foley Claret depicts a real coat of arms, but it certainly makes you think Old World. Using “Claret” to refer to a Bordeaux blend also screams Europe. According to Wikipedia, Claret was the most common wine exported from Bordeaux until the 18th century. Regardless of the name, I’ve never had a wine made by the very talented, but very New World styled, Bob Foley that could be mistaken as something made on the other side of the pond.
2004 Robert Foley Claret – USA, California, Napa Valley, Spring Mountain District (12/1/2009)
Back in 2007 I thought this wine was fantastic and scored it 94. This time, I did not like it nearly as well. While still showing the same bright fruit, cassis, and chocolate, there was an element of bitterness that was offputting. The tannins were awkward. Bad bottle? I don’t think so. I think this wine is is a dumb phase right now. Hold for 2-3 years. (87 pts.)

The elegantly named and beautifully packaged Trilogy is the most modern presentation, and yet it is the most true to Old World inspiration. Trilogy refers to the blend of three of the traditional Bordeaux varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Each varietal brings something special to the wine and Flora Springs does it well.
1999 Flora Springs Trilogy – USA, California, Napa Valley (12/12/2009)
Bright raspberry fruit well balanced with wood smoke, leather, pencil lead. Open the bottle an hour before serving and decant just prior to remove significant sediment. Drink now. (88 pts.)

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