Tags
$30, 5 stars, 91 points, california, merlot, petite sirah, syrah, zinfandel
I could not pass this wine up, aged 3 months in Bourbon Whiskey Barrels… That had my name all over it, but I’m not excited about the 16% ABV, seems over the top. Let’s try some.
It is bright purple and opaque AF. I can smell it a mile away, the waft is pretty serious. Once I get stuck in- the nose is very rich with blackberry, blackcurrants, black plum, alcohol, eucalyptus, caramel, vanilla, minty greeness and some black espresso. Did I mention alcohol? I have to blow that stuff out of the glass or else I will get drunk sniffing.
The palate has a sweetness to it right off the bat, but when I did my soon-to-be trademarked dryness test, I confirmed it is a dry wine. That must be from Bourbon, which is known to have caramel sweetness rather than residual sugar. I get gobs of rich black fruits that I picked out on the nose, plus really integrated, lithe tannins and medium acidity. This fruit bomb is very smooth and enticing, buyer beware of the formidable punch which is deftly hidden. If you like them big, bold and jammy then this one is right up your alley. I really am enjoying this 91 point blend of 38% Merlot, 37% Syrah, 11% Zinfandel, 7% Petite Sirah, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Other Red Blenders. It’s not a daily drinker for sure, especially at $30 but it gets 5 stars from me and worth a try if you see it. Drink till 2026 with some Filets. Salut….