The 2009 Francis Coppola Claret from the Diamond Collection is a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot, 5% Malbec, 3% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. It spends 15 months in French oak, has a suggested retail of $20 and 13.5% alc.
The color is a medium ruby with a nose of coffee, medium dark fruit and a hint of vegetal, maybe from the Cabernet Franc. When I took the first taste I was hit with a burst of mocha, a very nice flavor. There was also some dark fruit and leather in the mouth along with a touch of vanilla. Nice soft tannins and a long finish made this a very pleasant wine to drink by itself or with food.
Note: This wine was provided to us as a tasting sample.
One of my wine staples, it is a really delectable wine.