Complicated Red Blend 2011 Front Label
Complicated Red Blend 2011 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

Color is medium-dark burgundy. Aromas of black fruits, smoky game, dusty cocoa powder and espresso are interwoven in the layers of aromatics. Instantly appealing on the palate, the 2011 Complicated offers surprising complexity. Finely grained tannins, and a mid-palate sweet spot, result in a very soft, velvety mouth feel. Ripe, rich black cherry and well-integrated French oak yield to a seductively long finish.

Professional Ratings

  • 90
    "Next Generation" winemakers Carlo Trinchero and Josh Phelps started their own wine label, Taken Wine Company, in 2009. Given the blend of 53% Grenache, 42% Syrah and 5% Carignane, the name "Complicated" is actually not difficult to figure out (like their other wine, "Taken" it also targets Millennials by referring to a social media relationship status). The components deliver layers of raspberry, cherry, licorice, spiced tea and dried purple fruit, while the subtlety of oak winds things up for a satisfying and clarifying finish.
Complicated

Complicated

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Undoubtedly proving its merit over and over, Napa Valley is a now a leading force in the world of prestigious red wine regions. Though Cabernet Sauvignon dominates Napa Valley, other red varieties certainly thrive here. Important but often overlooked include Merlot and other Bordeaux varieties well-regarded on their own as well as for their blending capacities. Very old vine Zinfandel represents an important historical stronghold for the region and Pinot noir is produced in the cooler southern parts, close to the San Pablo Bay.

Perfectly situated running north to south, the valley acts as a corridor, pulling cool, moist air up from the San Pablo Bay in the evenings during the hot days of the growing season, which leads to even and slow grape ripening. Furthermore the valley claims over 100 soil variations including layers of volcanic, gravel, sand and silt—a combination excellent for world-class red wine production.

YNG407825_2011 Item# 130004