Calafia La Reina Reserve 2011
Beautiful aromas of black currant, berries, black cherry, and nutmeg leap from the glass. The French Oak barrels supply a creamy texture with hints of cocoa and vanilla bean that integrate seamlessly with the sumptuous palate loaded with dark cherries, creme de cassis, plum, and baking spices. This is a supremely satisfying Cab that will continue to drink well for another 6-8 years.
Calafia Winery
The winery name derives from legend about a queen and her society of amazons on an island in the West Indies recorded in the log of Columbus’ first voyage. The legend was then popularized by Garcia Ordonez de Montalvo, a historical novelist, in his book, published in 1503 in which he named the queen “Calafia.” The origin of the word “Calafia” remains a mystery. Explorer Hernando Cortez landed near the tip of Baja in 1513 and was reminded of the rugged terrain described in Montalvo’s book. Believing he was on an island he named it “Calafia’s Land” which became California.
Queen Calafia’s great wealth was guarded by griffins; half eagle, half lion. We use griffins in our logo, protecting the fruit that vines and land bear.
The Wine
- Winery Calafia
- Vintage 2011
- Vineyard Calafia
- Varietal Cabernet Blend
- Style Boutique
- Winemaker Randle Johnson
- Production Boutique
Locale
- Country USA
- State California
- Region Napa Valley
Cellar Notes
- Aromatics Black Cherry, Currant, Nutmeg
- Tasting Notes Baking Spices, Cassis, Cherry, Cocoa Powder, Plum, Vanilla
- Food Pairings Beef Tenderloin with Gorgonzola Butter, Grilled Flank Steak with Carmelized Onions, Porcini Mushroom Phyllo Cup
- Aging 2022
Ratings
- Our Rating 95 - Classic