2016 Robert Foley Claret, Napa Valley California

The 2016 Robert Foley Claret is the flagship wine of Robert Foley Vineyards and a classic Cabernet Sauvignon-based Bordeaux blend from Napa Valley. The blend is composed of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot, with fruit sourced from vineyards in the Calistoga, Howell Mountain, and Mount Veeder AVAs. The combination of mountain-grown fruit and warmer Calistoga fruit brings both structure and richness to the wine, while approximately 30% new oak contributes additional depth and complexity. The 2016 vintage opens with ripe black cherry and cassis alongside violets, graphite, camphor, and dark chocolate.

Full-bodied and richly textured, Claret balances concentrated dark fruit with ripe, velvety tannins, natural acidity, and a long, refined finish. Its combination of mountain structure, generous fruit, and polished texture makes it one of the defining wines of the Robert Foley portfolio. Awarded 96 points by Jeb Dunnuck and 91 points by Wine Advocate, the 2016 vintage has developed beautifully with age and offers the depth and elegance expected from a serious Napa Valley Cabernet-based blend. It is an excellent match for New York strip steak, prime rib, grilled beef, roasted lamb, braised beef, hearty pasta, and aged cheeses.