Clos du Bois - Award-Winning Wines That Showcase The Best of The Sonoma County
Published on Fri Aug 24, 2007 8:18 am
Source: Crystal Higgins-Peterson, Calhoun & Company Communications
OVERVIEW
For nearly 30 years, Clos du Bois has crafted award-winning wines that showcase the best of the Sonoma County wine region, particularly the Alexander Valley, home of our winery and estate vineyards. The extraordinary fruit grown within this appellation is the basis of the Clos du Bois style — elegant, soft and supple wines that offer complexity and aging potential.
Clos du Bois’ award-winning wine style is derived primarily from these sources:
The Sonoma County appellationsof our Estate vineyards and grape sources.
The strength of our grower relations, ensuring a continued supply of the highest quality grapes.
The winemaking style of Erik Olsen.
The winemaking philosophy of “Wineries Within a Winery.”
Appellation
Sonoma County is one of the larger north coastal counties of California. Stretching inland from the Pacific coast over 30 miles, the coastal and bay areas are the coolest, due to onshore winds and fog. The climate warms as the ocean influence gradually diminishes moving inland, although its moderating effects are felt in all parts of the county. The result is a diverse number of climactic conditions tailored to different varietals.
Clos du Bois wines carry Sonoma County appellations, and each tier of wines highlights a distinct aspect of the region:
Sonoma County Classics: Offer the overall regional character of this prestigious winegrowing region.
Appellation Reserve Series: Focus on the special characteristics of single viticultural districts, particularly the Alexander Valley.
Proprietary Series: Highlight the standout varietal of each vintage, from any sub-appellation within the region.
Alexander Valley has a varied climate, with cooler conditions found in the southern end, where Clos du Bois is located. Along with fruit from its Estate vineyards, Clos du Bois sources more grapes from Alexander Valley than any other winery. The area has become famous for the lush fruit flavors of red and white varietals, and the naturally soft, round tannins of the red wines produced here.
In addition to the Alexander Valley, Clos du Bois sources grapes from more than 150 long-term growers in Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Valley, Carneros and Knights Valley.
The Wines
CLASSICS
Cabernet Sauvignon An elegant combination of berry-like flavors, peppery character and a subtle overlay of oak. Barrel Fermented Chardonnay Ripe pear, citrus and creamy vanilla flavors integrated with oak spice. Merlot Ripe, appealing plum, black cherry and currant flavors combine with toasty oak notes. Shiraz Aromas and flavors of wild raspberries with hints of licorice and layers of black pepper. Pinot Noir An aroma of crushed rose petals, smooth on the palate, with flavors of spice and black cherry. Sauvignon Blanc Melon, citrus and oak-spice flavors highlight this subtly herbaceous wine. Zinfandel A full-bodied wine brimming with ripe raspberry and blackberry flavors and a long, peppery finish.
Riesling Grapefruit, mineral and stone fruit flavors, with just a hint of sweetness. Rosé (April 2007 launch) Dry with crisp fresh acidity and flavors of rich, juicy strawberries and raspberries.
APPELLATION RESERVE SERIES
Russian River Valley Reserve Chardonnay Tropical fruit nuances with hints of toasted coconut.
Sonoma Coast Reserve Pinot Noir Smooth silky texture with fresh strawberry aromas and flavors.
Alexander Valley Reserve Merlot An elegant, full-bodied wine, featuring an extravaganza of ripe cherry and blueberry flavors.
Alexander Valley Reserve Shiraz Loaded with luscious black cherry and black pepper flavors with a rich, smooth finish. Alexander Valley Reserve Tempranillo A medium-bodied red wine that features soft tannins and lush forward fruit. Dry Creek Valley Reserve Zinfandel Blackberry fruit flavors with a spicy black pepper finish. Alexander Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Brimming with lush velvety blackberry and vanilla flavors with aromas of black cherry and currants.
PROPRIETARY SERIES
Marlstone – Bourdeaux Blend Intense fruit flavor and aromas of cherry, rose petals, tobacco and blackberries. Calcaire - Chardonnay A classic Alexander Valley Chardonnay that exhibits plenty of tropical fruit and spice flavors. Flintwood - Chardonnay A lean, toasty Chardonnay featuring layers of apple, pear and butterscotch flavors. Briarcrest - Cabernet Sauvignon Aromas of deep, rich chocolate, cedar and oak harmonize with flavors of blackberry and cassis.
For more information, visit http://closdubois.com Clos du Bois is part of Beam Wine Estates, Inc., the fine wine subsidiary of Beam Global Brands, which is owned by Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO), the consumer products company.
