Intensely fruity—think boysenberry and blackberry jam—this old Carignane is also leathery tough with black pepper spice that’s very savory amid the berry and cherry and bosomy tannins. Cline is among the few wineries in California to have access to these ancient Carignane vines and the winery does a nice job showing the variety’s classic colors. ——V.B.(4/1/2012)—— 87

The solidly made red wines include a French Cotes du Rhone look-alike, the 2007 Ancient Vines Carignane. Plenty of earth, pepper, licorice, roasted herb, blue and red fruit characteristics are found in this medium-bodied, very drinkable Carignane. Consume it over the next 1-2 years. Tel. (707) 940-4000; Fax (707) 940-4034