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2013 Duckhorn Vineyards The Discussion Napa Valley Red Wine
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Over three decades ago, before crafting their first vintage, the Duckhorns and their winemaker had a passionate discussion at the kitchen table. Though they debated making a cuvée, they chose to focus on varietal wines. Even so, Duckhorn Vineyards has always remained fascinated by the artful blend of varietals from diverse Napa Valley vineyards. Embodying the depth and complexity of a world-class Estate program, The Discussion represents the pinnacle of the Duckhorn Vineyards portfolio and the ongoing dialogue that defines great winemaking.
Wine Enthusiast
90
Wine & Spirits
92
Wine Profile
Production Notes
Composition: 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot; Aging & Oak: 100% French Oak, 95% New Oak, 5% Neutral and 6 additional months in 100% Neutral
Winemaker Notes
As compelling as it is complex, this elegant wine effortlessly combines lovely pure fruit flavors with silky tannins and nuanced savory notes. Aromas of red and black currant, acai, strawberry rhubarb and black cherry rise from the glass, along with hints of sweet baking spice, sage, vanilla and fresh-baked pie crust. On the palate, rich, round tannins add depth and sophistication, while aging in French oak imparted a lovely mouthfilling creaminess that adds length to a supple and lingering finish.
Production
The 2013 harvest was early, even and excellent with all of our estate fruit in the winery by October 10th. A warm dry spring brought an early bud break and created ideal conditions for flowering and fruit set. In the weeks after Labor Day, a moderate heat event followed by a period of perfect weather created a dream scenario for end-of-season ripening. Rain was not a factor, and for the second vintage in a row, the quality of the grapes was exceptional throughout Napa Valley.
Other Notes
Released: March 2017
Wine Specs
Wine Specs
Vintage
2013
Varietal
Red Blend
Appellation
Napa Valley
Harvest Date
September 12 – October 7, 2013
Sugar
26.6° Brix
Acid
0.55 g/100 ml titratable acidity
pH
3.77
Aging
18 Months in Oak
Alcohol %
14.5
Wine Enthusiast
90
Wine & Spirits
92
Product Reviews
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Gary E. Smith
(Jun 9, 2017 at 10:44 AM)
We visited Duckhorn Winery late in the day on June 4, and tasted 5 wines -- all were excellent. In addition, our host gave us (my wife, son and me) a taste of The Discussion. Afterwards we joined the wine club and ordered a mixed case of 12. Yesterday evening, together with 2 friends, we drank The Discussion -- all agreed it was the best wine we had ever had.