91 Points - Wine Spectator
Each varietal adds flavor components and textural elements that create a wine that is a perfect complement to grilled meats and savory sauces.
VARIETALS
The Comet is a blend of three varietals that complement each other beautifully: Zinfandel, Carignane, and Petite Sirah. Together, they make a rich, complex, full-bodied wine with a tremendous depth of flavor. The Petite Sirah comes from the Todd Brothers Ranch, a steep, red-rock vineyard in the Alexander Valley, where the vines struggle to produce a small quantity of grapes resulting in great intensity and structure. The old-vine Carignane comes from 130+ year old vines from the historic Evangelho Vineyard in Contra Costa. Finally, the Zinfandel comes from 100 year old vines, the Louvau Family Vineyard, one of their favorites in the Dry Creek Valley.
WINEMAKING
The ripening weather before harvest was relatively moderate, resulting in very balanced and fruit-forward flavors in the grapes. The vineyards produced relatively small yields, resulting in dark, highly flavored wines. Varietals were fermented separately, using the native yeasts, and aged the wine for 14 months in French oak barrels. At blending, 25% of Petite Sirah was used to maximize richness and added 7% of Carignane as a "spice rack" wine for bright fruit and complexity. The resulting wine absolutely shines with its rich texture and depth of flavor.
Vintage: 2019
Varietals: 68% Zinfandel, 25% Petite Sirah, 7% Carignane
Appellation: Sonoma Valley
Time in oak: 14 months in French and Hungarian oak
Alcohol: 14.5%
92 Points
Aromas and robust flavors of dark cherry, blackberries, mocha, espresso and hints of black pepper. Incredibly balanced with a smooth mouthfeel and body against a backdrop of structured tannins. The wine unfolds with notes of clove and dried herbs, ending with a long rich finish.
Excellent, Great Value!
Aromas of rich cherry, black currant, dark plums, with hints of lightly toasted vanilla, mint and crushed slate. The concentrated flavors further integrate with blackberries, tobacco, anise and earthiness with a balanced oak profile, layered palette, leaving you with its delightful finish.
Rich & Luxurious!
Beautiful ruby color and opens with aromas of bright red plum and raspberry, cassis, and a touch of mint. The tannins are soft yet structured, and complemented by vibrant acidity, with hints of clove and baking spice from the oak aging. The wine ends with a long, smooth finish and lingering intensity encouraging you to enjoy another juicy sip.