Clos Du Val Zinfandel 2012 Wine Review

Clos Du Val Zinfandel 2012

Napa Valley, California, United States

Community Score:89/100

Community Reviews: 5

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Price: $34.95

Drink: 2014-2018

Bottle size: 750 ml

Alcohol: 14.5%

Sweetness: Extra Dry

Wine Type: Red Wine

Winery: Clos Du Val

Agent: The Vine/Robert Groh Agency

Natalie's Score: 90/100

Elegant Californian Zinfandel that is extremely balanced. Dark fruit and some oak in balance. Polished tannins. Ready to drink now. Clos du Val is a consistently good producer of solidly made red wines. Finesse and Zinfandel aren't usually words that are in the same sentence, but here you are. Smooth and supple. You'd never know that this wine clocked in it 14.5% alcohol: it's so balanced. Pair with BBQ ribs.

Zinfandel food pairings: barbecued ribs, grilled lamb, pasta.

Plush Pork Wine

This Clos Du Val Zinfandel 2012 was reviewed on February 7, 2015 by Natalie MacLean

More Vintages: 2014 2013 2011 2010 2009

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Pricing & Stock Information

LCBO
590216
$34.95
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Reviews and Ratings

Mymi Thesingingsommelier - Sommelier, FWS rated this wine as 90/100 with the following review:

John Goelet established Clos Du Val in 1972 with 150 acres of vineyards in what is known now as the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley. Soon after, he acquired 180 acres of prime Carneros hillside vineyards. Clos Du Val’s first release, a 1972 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, was chosen as one of six California Cabernets to compete against French Bordeaux wines at the infamous 1976 Paris Tasting. Ten years later, the same wine won first place in a rematch of the same American and French wines. The 1986 tasting established Clos Du Val’s reputation for world-class Cabernet Sauvignon.
But Cabernet Sauvignon is not all they do! This Zinfandel 2012 is stunning and superbly crafted! Grab a few bottles!
The label for their wines (other than the JG’S JOIE DU VIN collection) is true simple beauty. The Three Graces: Splendor, Mirth and Joy have adorned Clos Du Val’s labels since 1972. These mythical daughters of Zeus were said to preside over Olympian banquets and celebrations, spreading good cheer and raising a glass to the prosperity, happiness, health and good fortune of all. Cheers to that!
For optimum pleasure, let this beauty breathe for at least 30 minutes or decant and get ready to be charmed!
Purple red garnet in color, like a beautiful gem. Multitude of slow and thick legs.
On the nose, it is complex and vivacious. Aromas of ripe raspberries, cedar, Tahitian vanilla, blackberry and caramel tickle the olfactory glands.
On the palate, it is rich, bold and ample. Smooth tannins, soft acidity and unctuous in texture. Full of dark, ripe fruit, a little raisiny, brambly, earthy and spicy with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg and clove. Long finish leaves you with a touch of sweetness on the tongue.
Marvelous!
Pair this wine with dried-fruit and nut stuffed chicken breasts, spicy bold curry dishes or a great blue cheese!

Jane Staples - Certified Sommelier rated this wine as 89/100 with the following review:

Nose of graphite, mint, vegetal green pepper and red fruit with a palate that repeats and adds earthy& leafy hints.

Heather Wall - CS; WSET Advanced rated this wine as 88/100 with the following review:

A lovely deep ruby colour with enticing aromas and flavours of ripe berries, cherry, vanilla, pepper. Some warm spices coupled with 14.5% abv gives a lengthy warm finish. Tannins are youthful in this full-bodied red wine. Excellent BBQ wine. Load up the BBQ sauce!
Tasted: February 2015

This robust Californian Zinfandel has accents aromas of wild black fruit and spice. Polished tannins, good bones and structure. - Community Wine Reviews

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Clos Du Val Zinfandel 2012 Wine Review

Natalie's Score: 90/100

Pricing & Stock Information