Wines
of the Weeek: Ripe Red Blends
Red
blends are growing ever more popular, particularly the one which
express a lovely ripe, lush character. Thus, for those who crave
these fruit-forward wines, here are three that our tasting panel
thinks will please your wallet and palate. Cheers!
Click
on labels to enlarge |
Z.
Alexander Brown 2015 "Uncaged" Red Blend
Winery:
Z. Alexander Brown
Grape(s): Zinfandel, Syrah, Petit Verdot,
Malbec, Petite Sirah, Cabernet
Region: North Coast, Ca
Year:
2015
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification:
n/a
Price: 15-20
Review:
Blackberries and cherries combine with expressions of
chocolate and spice on the nose. The palate is chalk full
of boysenberry, cherry, and plum flavors that bring in
allusions of dark chocolate, clove, and pepper. Lush,
yet fairly layered, it's a well made blend for the price.
Rating: 90 |
|
7
Moons 2015 Red Blend
Winery:
7 Moons
Grape(s): Syrah, Merlot, Petite Sirah,
Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, & Grenache
Region: California
Year:
2015
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification:
n/a
Price: 10-15
Review:
A luscious nose, packed with dark fruit and some hints
of chocolate and sweet spice greets the senses. Black
cherries, plums, and blueberries come forth on the palate,
backed up by chocolate, vanilla, and clove. Very ripe,
smooth, and fruity, it's easy to keep on sipping.
Rating: 90 |
|
Robert
Mondavi 2015 Heritage Red Blend
Winery:
Robert Mondavi
Grape(s):
Syrah and Merlot, with a touch of Zinfandel and Petite
Sirah
Region: California
Year:
2015
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification:
n/a
Price: 5-10
Review:
Lush strawberries, raspberries, and cherries come together
with elements of chocolate and vanilla on the nose. Smooth
and ripe on the palate, red berries are framed by vanilla
notes. This is a light, fruit-driven blend that flirts
with sweetness, but if that's a style you like, this is
an excellent buy.
Rating: 89 |
By
Jason Barlow
Other
Related Links:
96
— 100 |
Spectacular |
92
— 95 |
Outstanding |
89
— 91 |
Great |
85
— 88 |
Good |
81
— 84 |
Solid |
|
*Wines
rated with a "+" need
a bit more time to reach peak quality
but will
do so over the coming years
|