Black currant, bilberry, violet and spice flavors align in this luscious red, which is well-balanced and integrated, with a lingering aftertaste of sweet fruit and spices. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Drink now through 2018. 54,000 cases made.?B.S.
Varietal: Red Blend | Location: United States - California
Apothic Red is bold and enchanting, as it captures the dark fruit characteristics of Syrah and Zinfandel. These jammy flavors blend well with the elegant blackberry and black cherry characteristics of the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The wine is further enhanced by undertones of mocha and vanilla.
Colour: Straw yellow with light green tinges. Nose: Subtle, intense and delicate, with good primary and secondary aromas. Palate: Fresh and dry, sapid, with pleasant delicate and fine feel. Food Matches: Seafood starters, fregola (small balls of semolina) with crustaceans, fish stews, bass with artichokes, soft-textured medium mature cheeses.
Varietal: Rhone Blend | Location: France - Rhone Valley - Vacqueyras
WA 90-92
Arnoux Père's "White Label" Vacqueyras "Seigneur de Lauris," a blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah, sees new oak, and offers excellent structure and aging potential.
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon | Location: United States - California - Napa
The soul of Cabernet Sauvignon, many believe, lies in Napa Valley. Wines from these grapes taste richer, fuller and have legendary regional characteristics such as cherry or dusty nuances. Is it the weather, the soil, the sun, we aren't sure.
Varietal: Bordeaux Blend | Location: France - Bordeaux
This wine comes from none other than Jean-Luc Thunevin, known as the "bad boy" of Bordeaux for his progressive, outside-the-box ways. We tasted this barrel sample after our beautiful lunch at his home. Bad Boy, now labeled "Mauvais Garcon" because of a copyright dispute, was superb. It has excellent concentration and balance, with blackberry and currant flavors. The tannins are soft and round, so this should be wonderful for near-term consumption.
Varietal: Merlot | Location: United States - California - Central Coast
Very distinctive strawberry jam and berry aromas framed by notes of French oak. The bright fruit flavors carry into the mouth, balanced by a medium body and soft tannins.
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon | Location: United States - California - Rutherford
WA 90
Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2009 Rutherford Cabernet spent 14 months in a combination 50% French oak, 30% American oak, and 30% Hungarian oak, 40% new barrels and 60% used. Although drinking beautifully right now, this wine has the potential to age gracefully for several years.
Varietal: Chardonnay | Location: United States - California
Swirl this Chardonnay and indulge in its rich aromas of pear, apple and tropical fruit. Hints of vanilla and toasty oak spices come from oak fermentation, while a floral note is from a splash of Viognier. Sip and discover silky layers reminiscent of pineapple, melon, fig and baked apple. The lingering, fruity finish is laced with creÌ€me bruÌ‚leÌe nuances. This wine’s lush flavors and crisp acidity pair especially well with creamy dishes; our favorites include clam chowder, smoked salmon angel hair pasta, four-cheese risotto, and chicken with tarragon cream sauce.