Sunday, February 20, 2011

R Collection Field Blend Lot No 7 - 2008

Appearance: Bright, deep, almost opaque, garnet core with a medium(-) dark pink rim. The "legs" seem to be slow moving (Guess alcohol to be above 13% ABV. There is no indication of sediment or floating particles.

Nose/Aroma: Medium(+) intensity of elusive fruit (unripe black or maybe red fruits) with black licorice, vanilla and fresh currant. When the glass was empty there was the pronounce aromas of vanilla and bitter-sweet chocolate with only a hint of black licorice.

Palate: Dry, medium bodied with medium(+) round tannins and a refreshing mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics are of medium(-) intensity displaying, once again the elusive fruit (either unripe or fresh black fruit or maybe red fruits) with hints of blackcurrant and black licorice. There was a slight alcohol burn on the back palate which implies that the 14.1% ABV is not balanced with the other components.

Finish/Length: The finish is clean with a short length (nothing remained)

Conclusion: This is an unremarkable wine that seems out of balance primarily due to the alcohol burn. At a retail price of about US$16.00 it seems to be just another California red wine in a field of many. Not really a wonderful value. If you were to buy it, drink now and with a beef dish where the protein and fat might mitigate the alcohol burn on the back palate.

Producer Tasting Notes: Our 2008 R Collection Field Blend is a complement to any occasion, whether it be a casual dinner at home or a more formal gathering with friends and family. Aromas of ripe red fruit and spice immediately capture your attention and entice you to taste. Flavors of tangy raspberries, fresh-picked blueberries and ground white peppercorns explode in your mouth, with a delightfully rich profile from the front of the palate through the back. This full-bodied wine is well balanced and smooth, juicy tannins that make it approachable, food-friendly wine. Recommended pairings include marinated steak kabobs, pasta with marinara or Alfredo sauce, and grilled portabella mushrooms with balsamic vinaigrette.

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