Red Blends

Oct 012012
 
2008 Nickel & Nickel C. C. Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Rutherford, CA, $95 (S) – Rating 92

Opens with a robust nose of blueberry and plum. The full mouth-feel in this 100% Cabernet is accentuated with flavors of dark cherry and dark berry fruit with complex notes of espresso, chocolate and toasty oak. Definite hints of typical Rutherford earthiness combined with well-integrated tannins add character in the long finish. Buy This Wine

Aug 092012
 
2007 August Ridge Vineyards Jovial, Estate Grown, Paso Robles, CA, $42 (S) – Rating 89

A big Super-Tuscan blend of 64% Sangiovese, 16% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon with aromas of dark berries, black cherry, tobacco box and a hint of campfire smoke. The palate flavors remind me of black cherry pie with plenty of dark spice combined with rustic notes of cinnamon, saddle leather and smoke. Plenty of acidity to pair with flavorful red meat or game dishes.

Jul 102012
 
2008 Sawyer Cellars Bradford Meritage, Red Wine, Rutherford, Napa Valley, CA, $46 (S) – Rating 91

A rich blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, this wine calls out for a warm fireplace and a cold night. A spicy nose of  dark cherry, tobacco and blueberry gives way to a full palate of dark berry, black cherry, leather and smoke with fairly soft tannins yet good acidity. Paired wonderfully with chorizo topped steak.

Feb 212012
 
2009 Lava Cap American River Red Celebrated Cuvee, El Dorado Appellation, CA, $18 (S) – Rating 90

The first word that came to mind was simply delicious. This blend of 30% each Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah with 10% Zinfandel has a nose of cherry chocolate. Rich fruit and soft tannins offer up those same cherry and dark cocoa powder flavors with spicy notes and hints of vanilla and smoke. A great red wine at the price from Lava Cap.