Winemaker Notes
Blend: 55% Grenache, 25% Shiraz, 20% Mourvedre
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Vibrant, attractive red fruits on the nose, some blueberry too, some spice and fragrant musky perfume, this has all the right attributes of an approachable, brambly mid-weight red. Crunchy and flavorsome form start to finish. Drink now.
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Wine Enthusiast
The blend is 55% Grenache, 25% Shiraz and 20% Mourvedre, but while this is a full-bodied wine, it's not overdone or bombastic. The masses of dark fruit are reined in by crisp acids and a layer of supple tannins, adding depth to the cassis, vanilla and mint flavors.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.