RCP: Clos Du Val -> Cab Sav and Merlot

I've always liked the wines from Clos Du Val. To me, there were California wines made in a very French style. I had a customer in the store last night, and I brought out both the
Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon (2006) and their Merlot (2007).

I was showing him the differences in the blends of both wines.. Showing that the Cabernet has mostly Cabernet with a little of Merlot and other grapes, while the Merlot was mostly Merlot grape.
I made a reference to each one almost representing the different areas and styles of some French Bordeaux. I showed him a map of Bordeaux and pointed out the Pauillac region and that many of their wines have a higher amount of Cabernet Sauvignon. Then showing the East side where Merlot was the heavy hitter. I went on to explain those are some of the differences between the Rothschild Chateau wines and Chateau Margaux. Now, please, this I was just being simplistic with the customer, and totally realize that there is so much more behind all of this.

The customer purchased the Merlot and wanted to try it then. So, I picked up the Cabernet and we tasted both. To me, the Cabernet Sauvignon won hands down. But that is my style of wine to start with. This Cab was rich, big and bold. The tannins were high, but at the same time controllable. I could see this wine lasting and maturing for a good number of years. I will like to re-taste it in about 5 years. The Merlot was also very nice, as expected softer and more delicate but still with a good statement. There was a lot of fruit in this one with just a bit of tannins.

To some, you might thought my little exercise with the customer was crazy or not important. For me, it was an opportunity to 'teach' a little more about grapes and regions. To the customer, he was totally excited and has placed an order for a split case of each of those wines.

[James Roscoe]

Do you mind telling what you are retailing the wine for? I would say you made a savy move from a business point of view. You will probably sell even more in the future.

RCP: Clos Du Val -> Cab Sav and Merlot
Where's the recipe?

James,

March Prices:

Cabernet Sauvignon $39.99
Merlot $19.99

Dale, both total Napa Valley

Cabernet
86% Cabernet Sauvignon
9% Cabernet Franc
3% Merlot
2% Petit Verdot

Merlot
81% Merlot
12% Cabernet Sauvignon
5% Cabernet Franc
2% Petit Verdot

Both spend at least 17 months in French oak.

To some, you might thought my little exercise with the customer was crazy or not important. For me, it was an opportunity to 'teach' a little more about grapes and regions. To the customer, he was totally excited and has placed an order for a split case of each of those wines.

It was just such an event in a local wine shop in 1985, Ron, that initially brought me into the world of wine. It is rare and I undersatnd one can't do so with every customer but when the time it right, it is well worth the effort both educationally and financially through the establishment of a loyal customer.

[David M. Bueker]

Not to throw a wet blanket on things, but it is customary to note one's status as a retailer (or other ITB position) in the signature line, as well as refrain from posting (or at least acknowlege the commercial interest) on wines that one sells.

And then there's the fact that Margaux is still on the left bank side of Bordeaux, thus typically still dominated by Cabernet, even if there is usually more Merlot than in most Pauillacs.

[Jenise]

Hey, Ron isn't an importer trying to create buzz about wine in his book, he's just relating an on-the-job experience. I don't think the rule you mention should apply in this kind of situation.

David,

I am the Wine Consultant at the Retail shop and have no financial ties with the store. Considering that , would it still be required to identify the retail shop? I have no intention or using the retail shop as a spring board of any kind. If my posts have been in violation of a forum rule, trust me, I will immediately cease that behavior. My apologies in advance.

Map: the one I was viewing (have to look at it with better glasses maybe) Bordeaux was the title, and the names are just some that were printed on the chart.

Bourdeaux
Margaux
Paulliac



Graves

Hey, Ron isn't an importer trying to create buzz about wine in his book, he's just relating an on-the-job experience. I don't think the rule you mention should apply in this kind of situation.

Agree. From day one with his introductory bio, Ron has stated his ITB role and I don't think he has made any effort to conceal his retail job or conceal it from us. Nor, have I ever felt he has been shilling wine here. There are a number of ITBer who post here without disclosing such in the sig and I don't think it has caused problems.

[David M. Bueker]

Just relaying my experience in the broader wine web (where ITB disclosure is not only the norm but often required). If folks are ok then no sweat off my brow.

Back to your local programming.