At a glance

Producer

Clos Rivanne

Region

Mendocino County, California, USA

Grape variety

Touriga Nacional

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$60

Tasting profile

Black fruit (blackberry, plum), earth, floral notes of violet, spice hints of black pepper and licorice, subtle oak influence

Evolution: Fruit will continue to mellow, earth and tertiary notes like forest floor and leather will emerge steadily over 5+ years

At peak: Rich, complex flavors with silky tannins, excellent depth, and layered complexity from both fruit and savory aging characteristics

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, provides balance

Tannins

Firm but polished

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

8-12 years from vintage; good tannic structure and acidity support aging up to a decade or slightly longer

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2020 to 2028

Optimal window

2018 to 2030

Current status

Mature and drinking well

Current condition

The wine is currently showing mature fruit and integrated tannins; still good structure for further cellaring over the next 5-7 years.

This 2014 vintage from Mendocino showing classic phenolic ripeness combined with balanced acidity enables an extended drinking window. The full-bodied style and firm tannins support at least a decade of aging. While it’s accessible now, it will broaden and soften in the next five years reaching optimum complexity and integration.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, beef stew, wild game, hearty mushroom dishes, aged hard cheeses such as Manchego or Gouda

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45 minutes to 1 hour) — To open up dense tannins and release complex aromatics

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Clos Rivanne employs water conservation techniques, renewable energy for winery operations, and sustainable farming including minimal pesticide use and cover crops for soil health.

While not fully organic or biodynamic, the producer meets high standards for sustainability with active efforts to reduce environmental impact through farm management and winery energy use. Packaging is moderate with traditional glass bottles and cork closure; some efforts to minimize materials noted.