2007 Constant Claret Diamond Mountain

(90-92 points) The deep ruby/purple-tinged 2007 Claret possesses a sweet, fat component that provides flesh and succulence to the wine’s tannic structure. Black raspberry, black currant, crushed rock, and spring flower-like characteristics emerge from this pure, textured beauty. This breathtakingly beautiful vineyard and winery on the top of Diamond Mountain produces 1,500-1,800 cases of wine (their goal is no more than 2,000 cases). The offerings from proprietors Mary and Fred Constant have shown dramatic improvement with each new vintage. While the focus is on Bordeaux varietals, two estate Syrahs have been added to the portfolio. Their vineyard, which is primarily on the Napa side of the Mayacamas range, also includes a small parcel on the northern Sonoma side, and the Syrah comes from this plot. The 2006s are very strong efforts in this irregular year, and the 2007s are the finest wines I have yet tasted from Constant. Wine Advocate #180 Dec 2008