Napa’s best kept secret is out. A must have Cabernet!

Gary and RicardoThis is a real find! My old friend, winemaker Pam Starr (formerly Spottswoode, now Crocker-Starr and Bridesmaid) is the brain surgeon behind this medically owned wine venture. The winery is owned by two Chicago physicians, both wine-ohs (i.e. lovers of great wine, great food, the works). Gary (the GAR) is a native of Chicago who grew up with great Italian food and wine. He is a podiatrist and foot surgeon (I guess that helps when you do the “I love Lucy” thing! Ricardo (the RIC) was born in the Philippines and came to the US with his medical degree and $500.00 in his pocket. Fast forward the two guys met (1998) drank a bottle of Lafitte Rothschild and the rest was history. They purchased a property in Calistoga in 2002 and now split time between the win(dy) and win(e) countries.

Garric Cellars 2008 Cabernet SauvignonGarric Cellars 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

The 2008 was sourced from Beckstoffer’s Missouri Hopper (home to many great wines, i.e. World’s End, etc.) and the historic Larkmead vineyard.  Pam Starr is no stranger to make stunning wines, and this puppy is just another example of her craftsman(woman) ship.  When I opened my first bottle, both  my wife and I said: “WAW (What A Wine).  Amazing, the aromatics filled our dining room and my kids even commented that this wine smelled very good.  On the nose tons of black stone fruit, a hint of anise and chocolate were prevalent.  The full-bodied flavors of more black cherry, black currant are lush, intense, yet incredibly well-balanced and in tune with the entire Garric picture!   For such a big bold wine, one would expect gigantic tannins – wrong!  The tannins are silky and elegant, but very long!  Only 400 cases of this little gem were produced, so I highly recommend you jump on this NOW!