2012 is the fourth vintage bottling of Muse Vineyards\u2019 flagship Bordeaux varietal blend, \u201cClio,\u201d and a composition of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec \u2014 all estate grown. It presents an appealing balance of fruit and earth, with aromas of macerated blackberry, grilled tomato, and violet that segue into flavors of fresh-picked black cherry, fig, and poblano pepper \u2014 all layered with impressions of bay leaf, cocoa bean, and iron over a lingering, savory finish. The wine is dry, full-bodied, and velvety on the palate, with mild acidity and approachable tannins. Oak is spicy and herbaceous, but well integrated; the wine aged for 24 months in French oak barrels, 40% new and the remainder neutral, and was not fined or filtered. Unlike some other higher-end Virginia wines, Muse does not hide behind new oak; in Muse wines, oak is an accent \u2014 a discreet frame around the art \u2014 not the dominant trait.<\/p>\n
The 2012 Clio is a sophisticated and eminently eMuse Corknjoyable expression of traditional red Bordeaux varieties as grown in Virginia\u2019s Shenandoah Valley and assembled with meticulous attention to detail by Muse Winemaker Tim Rausse. It will serve as a versatile food wine; drink it now and over the next several years.<\/p>\n
Recommended Food Pairings: Medium-to-sharp cheeses; cured, roasted, and smoked meats; seared filet mignon; cassoulet; venison; and other such hearty fare.<\/p>\n
13% ABV | 222 Cases Produced | $35<\/strong><\/p>\n To read our original introduction to Muse Vineyards, click on the link: \u201cRaising the Bar for Winemaking in Virginia\u2019s Shenandoah Valley.\u201d<\/p>\n For more information on Muse Vineyards 2012 Clio and its availability, visit them virtually at www.musevineyards.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Shenandoah Valley, Virginia 92 Points | \u201cHighly Recommended\u201d 2012 is the fourth vintage bottling of Muse Vineyards\u2019 flagship Bordeaux varietal blend, \u201cClio,\u201d and a composition of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec \u2014 all estate grown. It presents an appealing balance of fruit and earth, with aromas of macerated blackberry, grilled tomato, and violet that segue into flavors of fresh-picked… <\/p>\n