A Short Review of Blends Part One

Alright!

I finally got around to posting a "real" review for once in a long time.  So to make up for it, I decided to do a collection of reviews about wines that are in themselves, a collection.

Red blends are one of the most popular wines out there and the art of blending varietals dates back to the 800s where wines were stored in apothecas.  Whether it be Domestic, Imported, or even home-grown, Red Blends will always be a major staple of the wine world.

A by Acacia Red Blend NV

Just to note, the latest vintages of A are now becoming a non-vintage wine but at the time I tasted my last bottle it was a 2007.

A by Acacia is an affordable Rhone style red blend produced by Acacia Vineyards of Napa, California.  Now what Acacia is famous for is their Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs from Carneros, a small region of Napa which is ideal for both grapes.  What is magnificent about their red blend is that it's an amalgamate of Syrah, Mouvedre, Cinsault, and Viognier; three of which are typical of a Rhone red, but Viognier (one of my personal favorites) is a sneaky white varietal that really ties this wine together very well.  

Now down to the wine itself.  The fragrance is very similar to a true Côtes du Rhône, very floral and sweet.  The flavor is a complex mix of dark berries and a hint of sweet peach nectar. A really good buy for those of you who want to explore French blends, but would still like to stick to their Domestic comfort zone.

Retails usually for about $9.99.

Apothic Red Blend 2008

Apothic itself is named for the apothecas I had mentioned before.

What is interesting about this blend is that I've yet to find anything exactly like it yet.  It's predominately Zinfandel, followed by portioned amounts of Merlot and Syrah.  It really is one of a kind to my knowledge, and if anyone has anything close to it, let me know.  Personally, I find it too sweet for my taste.  But it is a very versatile wine.  Can easily pair with just about anything from roast tenderloin to grilled salmon.  I find that  Apotic is best served slightly chilled and easily able to serve at parties or functions.

Retails for about $8.99.

Ménage à Trois Red Blend 2007

Another note regarding vintage: I sampled the 07, my personal favorite, but the current is 2009.

I guess this was kind of expected, Ménage is one of the most popular wines in America right now.  The reason I'm reviewing it is for those of you who haven't caught on to the bandwagon.  I know some people are skeptical about the whole "mainstream" thing, this is a really good drink.  Here in New Orleans, it has become the house wine for some of the casinos and hotels.

A trinity of Zinfandel, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon; Ménage is a blessing from Sonoma that has pleased millions across the US.  It's smooth, slightly sweet, and the body is perfect.  These guys really know what they're doing.  For about $9.99 a bottle, it's worth a try this holiday season.  And for those of you who are not into "mainstream," this is for you!

Blackstone Rubric Sonoma Reserve 2005

I saved this one for last because it really is an overseen gem in the wine world.  A lot of people really know Blackstone for its world famous Merlot but the Rubric is one of the best domestic Bordeaux style blends.  Predominately Cabernet Sauvignon, it is followed in a standard Bordeuax manner by Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petite Verdot; but also accompanied by an American grown grape, Petite Sirah.  A deep, dark, and robust flavor, it is scented by spiced and tobacco but softened by rose hip and honeysuckle.  The body is bold, like a hearty aged Cabernet.  A must have for those a little more experienced in the wine world but still want to lusted in Domestic goods.  Retails for about $17.99.

Have any questions or requests, just let me know!

And as always, enjoy!