Winemaker Notes
Blend: 68% Grenache, 26% Shiraz, 6% Mourvedre
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Very aromatic with blackberries, spices, orange peel and tea. Full body, firm and silky tannins and a tangy finish. Energetic and focused with juicy fruit. Blend of 68% Grenache, 26% Shiraz and 6% Mourvèdre. Screw cap.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A blend of 68% Grenache, 26% Shiraz and 6% Mourvedre, the 2015 Grenache / Shiraz / Mourvedre sports a medium garnet-purple color and a nose of black cherry compote, red currant jelly and fertile soil with hints of Indian spices, black pepper and tar. Medium-bodied with a great intensity of earth and black berry flavors, the fruit is well-supported by rounded tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing long and peppery.
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.