Winemaker Notes
A barrel selection of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Phoenix is a classic representation of the Hudson Estate. This wine showcases enticing aromas of red currant, black cherry, and savory spice that leads to a plush mouthfeel and structured finish.
Blend: 64% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Cabernet Franc
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
The Merlot-dominated 2019 Phoenix (there’s 18% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc) offers a great nose of ripe black cherries, tobacco, chocolate, and damp earth, and it’s medium to full-bodied, ripe, and incredibly polished on the palate. It’s one hell of a Merlot, especially at the price. Drink this beauty over the coming 8-10 years.
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James Suckling
Ripe plums, blueberries and black cherries combine with sweet vanilla, pine wood and baking spices. Full-bodied, plush and tannic, yet this has a creamy, soft texture. The juicy and vibrant character makes its easy to drink. Long, warming finish. 64% merlot, 18% cabernet sauvignon and 18% cabernet franc. Give it three or four years to soften and come together. Try after 2024.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Composed of 64% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Cabernet Franc, the deep garnet-purple colored 2019 Phoenix gives up notes of ripe black plums, blackberry preserves and mulberries, plus suggestions of menthol, dark chocolate and spice cake. Medium to full-bodied with plush tannins and bags of juicy black fruits, it finishes with a vibrant, lifted finish.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
Known for elegant wines that combine power and finesse, Carneros is set in the rolling hills that straddle the southernmost parts of both Sonoma and Napa counties. The cooling winds from the abutting San Pablo Bay, combined with lots of midday California sunshine, create an ideal environment for producing wines with a perfect balance of crisp acidity and well-ripened fruit.
This cooler pocket of California lends itself to growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Carneros is an important source of sparkling wines made in the style of Champagne as well.