The Decanter World Wine Awards is among the many most prestigious and largest wine competitions on this planet. The 2024 judging noticed greater than 18,000 wines submitted. Simply .64%, solely 117 of those entries had been acknowledged with Platinum medals as among the many world’s greatest. Among the many greater than 1,000 American entries, solely 106 medaled, and solely two took Platinum medals. The sole North American producer to say the honors for the highest pink wine varietal mix, with a rating of 97/100, is Trefethen Household Vineyards.
Trefethen Household Vineyards is a outstanding and historic vineyard positioned within the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley, California. Established in 1968 by Eugene and Catherine Trefethen, the vineyard has remained family-owned and operated, now in its third era, embodying a deep dedication to high quality, sustainability, and the expression of Napa Valley’s terroir.
The property had a winemaking historical past courting again to the late Nineteenth century. The Trefethen restored the unique Nineteenth-century vineyard constructing and replanted the vineyards. They targeted on creating estate-grown wines that showcased the distinctive traits of their land.
The vineyard adheres to an “estate-grown philosophy”– all their wines are constructed from grapes grown on their property. This strategy ensures full management over the standard and consistency of their wines. The vineyards are farmed sustainably, with a concentrate on environmental stewardship, together with water conservation, soil well being, and biodiversity.
Situated within the coronary heart of Napa Valley, the Oak Knoll District is thought for its reasonable local weather, which is good for rising a variety of grape varieties. The district’s numerous soils contribute to the complexity and depth of Trefethen’s wines.
Dragon’s Tooth is a signature pink mix impressed by Trefethen Household Winery’s dedication to producing daring and distinctive wines. Named after the volcanic rocks discovered within the winery, which resemble dragon’s tooth, this wine is crafted to mirror the energy and uniqueness of its Oak Knoll volcanic soil terroir.
The wine is usually a mix of Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2021 classic was 49% Malbec, 37% Petit Verdot, and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon. The actual proportions might fluctuate barely between vintages, however the focus stays on creating a sturdy and balanced wine.
These three varietals mix nicely collectively. Malbec provides deep colour, ripe plum and blackberry flavors, and gentle tannins. Petit Verdot contributes intense colour, floral notes, sturdy tannins, and construction. Whereas Cabernet Sauvignon supplies spine, construction, and complexity with flavors of blackcurrant, cedar, and spice.
Blends of Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Sauvignon showcase the flexibility and complementary traits of those grape varieties. Areas like Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Mendoza, Cahors, South Australia, Colchagua Valley, and Tuscany are famend for his or her skill to craft distinctive wines that spotlight the very best qualities of those varietals, providing wine fanatics a various vary of flavors and kinds to discover. Exterior of Argentina and to some extent Cahors, nonetheless, it’s uncommon to seek out blends that function such a excessive proportion of Malbec.
Trefethen Household Vineyards, Dragon’s Tooth Red Mix 2021, 14.2% ABV, 750 ml
The wine reveals a deep, darkish ruby colour, with a slight purple hue.
On the nostril, there’s a profound aroma of ripe blackberries, darkish cherries, and plums. There are additionally hints of violets, cocoa, and a contact of vanilla and spice from the oak ageing.
On the palate, Dragon’s Tooth is a dense, full-bodied and well-structured wine. The preliminary burst of darkish fruit flavors of blackberry and black cherry are adopted by layers of darkish chocolate, espresso, and a refined, dusty minerality. The tannins are agency but velvety and well-ripened, giving the wine a noticeable spine.
The end is lengthy and clean, with lingering notes of darkish fruit, spice, and a touch of smokiness. Though readily drinkable now, the wine’s construction and fruit ahead character make it a perfect candidate for prolonged ageing. At a median retail worth of $45, it additionally represents wonderful worth.
The Decanted World Wine Awards Judging Panel described the wine as that includes:
Intrepid aromas of richly peppered blue and black fruit with a sheen of minty refreshment. Structured, polished and densely textured, with indulgent tannins and a penetrating bead of high quality acidity. Constructed for the lengthy haul.
Trefethen Household Vineyards is a testomony to the enduring legacy and dedication to high quality in Napa Valley winemaking. Their dedication to sustainable practices and estate-grown wines is obvious within the character and complexity of their choices. Dragon’s Tooth is a standout instance of their craft, showcasing the daring and distinctive qualities of their winery’s terroir. Whether or not loved now or cellared for future enjoyment, Dragon’s Tooth affords a wealthy and rewarding wine expertise.