Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
"The 2021 Hertelendy Signature Mountain Blend is one of the finest releases of this bottling to date. It starts off with a wonderful aromatic profile of ripe dark currants and black cherries which are laced with dark chocolate, spices, tobacco, graphite and traces of damp loamy notes. On the palate this is full-bodied and structured with a gorgeous rich texture which is beautifully layered with ripe dark fruits, sweet spices and mocha that expand seamlessly through the finish. This is absolutely outstanding now and should continue to drink beautifully for many years to come." — International Wine Report, 97 Points
Ratings
"The outstanding 2021 Hertelendy ‘Signature Mountain Red Blend’ Red Wine comes from the Rockwell Ridge Vineyard that is set on Howell Mountain. This right bank inspired blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc shows gorgeous red florals on the nose alongside wet stone, blackberry compote and creme de cassis with sweet pipe tobacco. The palate is soft and refined with serious texture and underlying verve. Stunning and captivating to consume now in its heady youth, this will easily live on for another twenty years to come. Drink 2024-2044." — Owen Bargreen, 97 Points
Awards
"The barrel sample of the 2021 Signature Mountain Blend I was presented showed a strong return to form, with vibrant cherry and raspberry fruit, a full-bodied, lush palate and a finish that highlights the positive tension between dusty tannins and mouthwatering acids. The preliminary blend is 60% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% each Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, mainly from the Rockwell Ridge Vineyard on the shoulder of Howell Mountain but with contributions from Atlas Peak and the Silverado Bench." — Robert Parker Wine Advocate, (95-97 Points)
Vineyard Notes
"Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2021 Signature Mountain Blend is composed of 60% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Malbec, 5% Petit Verdot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. Scents of black cherries, mulberries, and blackberry jelly give ways to nuances of violets, chocolate box, and Indian spices. The full-bodied palate is rich and impactful, with plush tannins and bags of juicy black fruit, finishing long and spicy."— The Wine Independent, Lisa Perrotti-Brown (Master of Wine), 96 Points
Production Notes
"The 2021 Hertelendy Signature Mountain Blend is deep ruby; on the nose there are scents of chocolate brownie, Santa Rosa plum, dark cherry and blackberry. A freshness is noticeable both on the bouquet and the palate of this vintage in particular; it is bright and lively with flavors of red cherry, red plum, black berry and dark raspberry. The finish is vibrant with a lingering red-fruited tartness. Mouth watering. Grainy and granular tannins outpace the fruit on the finish. Lingers with a drying character. In a blind tasting we would be hard pressed to identify this as a Merlot dominated wine. This is a layered and complex bottling." — Napa Wine Project
