![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJkp-LcxUb5Cx1QWbMogIe6eBfndr5iws_S7TD7EvoXqAQRIw9oB-Mc_1XJFDU5Oa5JR5XZ0fpGosOaChs-UGdB49g5pWr7POjUUzV24iVuL_O-vBVrbhe_0alyPyWb29Jh6pqXw/s320/StFrancisClaret2003.jpg)
Tasting notes:
Mixed berries, plum, cedar, and vanilla on the nose
Full-bodied on the palate
More berries on the finish, with cedar and anise layers
I recently had the St Francis Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon from the same vintage, so it's interesting to see the similarities. Both wines exhibit a nice cedar layer, but this Claret has extra depth and more integration of flavors. Of course, it's more of a deliberate blend- in this case it includes Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel.
This wine was on the wine list at a chain restaurant and it stuck out because everything on the list seemed to be 2006 or 2007, but here was an '03. It paired well with a small filet and side dishes. The menu price was $48 which is a total rip off as the wine typically retails for $18 or less.
Raise a glass- and hopefully one that costs you a bit less!