The 2021 Avenius Red reflects a slow stylistic evolution at Linden as we better understand our terroir. We are now making the wines with more restraint and less oak or extraction. Because of the high elevation Avenius Vineyard gives us grapes that have lots of red fruit characteristics, freshness, and moderate alcohol and palate weight.
Read MoreHardscrabble Red has been of a certain style, an emulation of Bordeaux, for decades. A combination of climate change and our own maturity, self-discovery and confidence has changed the equation. During blending trials the Cabernet Sauvignon was impressive and attempts to introduce other varietals in the wine took away from the élan, its drive, its specialness. Ultimately it was a flight of 2008 Barolos that showed us that power didn’t have to come from ultra-ripe fruit, alcohol and oak. The resulting blend is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is elegant, restrained, but concentrated. An iron first in a velvet glove.
Read MoreThe aromas have classic pretty red fruit high notes (think cranberries and sour cherries), but there is also an infusion of fennel, mint and tarragon and even a bit of cold ocean spray.
Read MoreThe 2021 Claret shows pungent aromas of red currants and red raspberries, along with fresh thyme, mint and tarragon. Maybe a bit of roasted red pepper in the background. The wine is medium bodied. There is a perky and lively finish with a refreshing acidity.
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