Tony Aspler, 2020 Runway Red, (89-90 points) 60% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc; cedary, spicy, toasty nose of black fruits; oak dominant at the moment, firmly structured with evident tannins. Bordeaux’s Blaye style. Needs time. (Tasted March 2024)
Louise Boutin, winecurrent.com, 2020 Runway Red (92 points): This superb blend of 60% merlot and the rest half and half cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc was matured 18 months in neutral French oak. It offers a clean and ripe fruit forward nose—blackcurrant, black cherry, blueberry—with an attractive backdrop of sweet tobacco, clove and violet. The palate is satin soft and cool with a black fruit flavour profile, complemented with minty notes, freshly cracked peppercorn, bright acidity and a good layer of ripe chewy tannins. Aerate/decant one hour and pour alongside gourmet lamb burgers on the grill or braised beef short ribs. (Tasted May 2024)
David Lawrason, Wine Align, 2020 Runway Red (87 points): This is a blend of merlot (60%), with 20% each of cabernet sauvignon and franc aged 20 months in neutral French oak. Merlot's ripe raspberry-cherry leads on the nose with a touch of florality. There are green notes and very little oak as well. It is medium weight, nicely textured but notably sour-edged on the palate. Tannins are quite fine and dusty. The length is good to very good. (Tasted May 2024)
Michael Godel, Wine Align, 2021 Runway Red (88 points): Runway Red is a mix of 60 percent merlot with (20 each) cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc that never treads in heavy waters, nor takes on wood with too much ambition. A bit salty, certainly crispy and also crunchy, tart and blessed with high acids. Tannins are austere though never severe. A solid expression with Bordeaux as the inspiration and while the fruit and depth are modest the moderate ambition and attitude are the result of keen execution and no hurry to up and impress. Will drink well for another two to three winters. Drink 2024-2026. Tasted May 2024. Value Rating: 3-stars
