Heidi Barrett, the preeminent winemaker at La Sirena, Paradigm and formerly Screaming Eagle, had long had the vision of creating a Pomerol-style Merlot/Cabernet Franc blend from the best sources of Napa Valley fruit. That dream became a reality with the introduction of the 2002 vintage of Amuse Bouche. This magnificent blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc is truly a wine to rival its famous counterparts from across the Atlantic, the giants of Pomerol, Petrus and Chateau Le Pin, not to mention setting an exceptionally high bar for its California challengers. Time magazine has called Heidi the "wine diva of Napa" and referred to her as "one of the world's top winemakers." She has several so-called "perfect" wines to her credit, having scored 100 points on Parker's 100-point scale. (The '92 and '93 Maya and the '92 and '97 Screaming Eagle immediately come to mind.)

The Duke has been pleased to offer her previous vintages of the sensational Amuse Bouche to our loyal customers and we are even more thrilled to be able to offer the stunning 2006 vintage to you on future.

The 2006 vintage was characterized by dramatic changes in weather during the early part of the season. Come harvest, everything slowed down to allow sufficient hang time for perfect ripening. Heidi is very pleased with the results and expects a "complex and elegant vintage."

The purchasers of a 6-pack will receive a very rare, limited-edition lithograph (30"x40") of the original artwork by talented American artist George Rodrigue having a retail value of up to $1,500.00. He is best known for his loup-garou or "Blue Dog." Rooted in stories from his childhood in the bayous of Louisiana, the werewolf-like dog has become George's signature in the world of art. Is the "blue dog" guarding that bottle and glass for someone, or is he preparing to enjoy it himself?

The Duke's futures price on this extremely limited Napa Valley classic is $250.00 per bottle or $1,500.00 per 6-pack, no change from last year. We expect the wine to be available in early October, 2008.

Don't miss out on this scarce Napa Valley cult wine!
Call the Duke today and order yours!!