1999 Cline Vineyards

1999 Cline
Contra Costa County
“Ancient Vines” Carignane
If it’s a grape made famous by the wines of the Southern Rhone Valley then you can bet Cline is going to produce their version. This is a great version. Grapes coming from 75 to 100 year old vines are the calling card of this powerful ass-kicking, in-your-face saturated black cherry bomb. Deep purple with a dense center and full aromas of cherry and peppercorns.


An oily mouthfeel that clings to your cheeks, and the brawny fruit combine to take your mouth hostage. Not overly tannic, but with enough grip to keep your senses sharp. Generous tangy clove and dark fruit create a beautiful balance that eventually fades down into a thick boysenberry finish.

The burly frame that holds this wine together never lets up; it shows perfect structure the whole hour it took me to knock down this bottle. The big “C” is terrific on its own. Rarely seen, but worth a look. Cline gets an “atta boy” for doing this Rhone varietal like a mo-fo. Good job guys. 2,157 cases made.

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