63% Merlot; 37% Cabernet Sauvignon. It may be principally comprised of Merlot, and it is, in fact, very long on outgoing, optimally ripened fruit, but this fleshy, full-bodied wine is structured more along sturdy Cabernet lines and is one whose best clearly lies years ahead.  Its showy beginnings and obvious richness are reasons enough to believe in its future, but only with time will its tannic toughness abate and all of its many pieces coalesce. 

A knockout blend that combines the finesse of Merlot with the power of mountain Cabernetfruit. Aromas of red currant, loamy earth and mocha lead to focused and layered black cherry, dried herb and cedar flavors wrapped in dense, fleshy tannins. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2014 through 2019. 508 cases made. –TF

The Merlot-based 2009 Claret Reserve is gorgeous. Juicy dark cherries, tobacco, smoke and cloves jump out of the glass. The Merlot gives the wine much of its suppleness, while the Cabernet adds the structure and pure mountain tannin. Even with all of its richness, the 2009 remains light on its feet for such a big wine. The 2009 boasts striking balance and tons of harmony. The blend is two-thirds Merlot and one-third Cabernet Sauvignon. Naturally, the Claret doesn't have the personality of the estate's variety wines, but it is compelling just the same. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029.

This is a huge, extracted Cabernet, potent in blackberry and cherry jam flavors, with plenty of oak influence. It shows the intensity of a Pride red wine as well as the tough mountain tannins. Impressive now for sheer power, and should develop over the next 8-10years. 
Cellar Selection. - S.H