Exotic blends boast big domestic value
BY W. PETER HOYNE
As an established generation of wine consumers continues to flock to the noble varietals of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, there is growing enthusiasm among young consumers to search out exotic red blends from lesser-known grape varietals such as Petite Sirah, Grenache, Zinfandel, Sangiovese and Tempranillo. During the last decade wines from Spain, France, Italy and Argentina have attracted the attention of many consumers because of their quality-to-price ratio while an increasing number of affordable domestic blends continues to emerge, including trendy red and white icons such as The Prisoner, Paraduxx, and Conundrum. In trying to appease this increasing thirst for less-expensive alternatives, winemakers are crafting fragrant, unpretentious blends that tempt you with their smooth, textured, ripe fruit while offering immediate pleasure at a price point that fits within any budget.
1. 2006 Clayhouse Adobe Red | Paso Robles, California
The estate vineyards of Clayhouse Winery are located near the town of Paso Robles. The Middleton family introduced an Adobe Series which is sourced from fruit grown in five regions of the Central Coast. Since Zinfandel (58%) is the dominant grape, along with Syrah, Petite Sirah and Malbec, there is a deep expression of supple red cedar spice and a background that is filled in with concentrated black cherry elements reminiscent of a well-made traditional Zinfandel. | About $16
2. Marietta Old Vine Red Lot #47 | Geyserville, California
Marietta Cellars, entering its 30-year anniversary, continues to have an unwavering group of loyal followers who cherish the value they get from this winery. This simple winery operation is owned and maintained by Chris Bilbro and his four sons, who source fruit from Sonoma and Mendocino counties. Bilbro has a deep portfolio of affordable wines, but the non-vintage Lot #47, a number that changes with each vintage, is one of the most consistent in the lineup. This fusion of Carignane, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, along with a few other varietals, offers an enticing sweet, ripe entry that expands into thick dark raspberry and currant flavors that grow more complex the longer it's open. | About $14
3. 2007 Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc-Viognier California
This blended white comes from Pine Ridge Winery, a well-established property with roots in Napa Valley that is known for its exclusive red Bordeaux blends. The current release reveals how the white grape varietals of Chenin Blanc, traditionally used in jug blends, can achieve notoriety in the hands of a talented winemaker like Stacy Clark. Green apple and pear aromas are balanced with hints of juicy citrus meringue flavors in a fresh and delicate framework, making it a perfect companion for a delicately grilled fish or enjoyed by itself. | About $12
4. 2006 Tamarack Cellars Firehouse Red | Columbia Valley, Washington
Founded in 1998, Tamarack Cellars was the fourteenth winery to establish itself in the Walla Walla Valley of Washington. The Firehouse Red garners consistent praise and is comprised of the traditional grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, along with Sangiovese, Carmenere and Malbec. This is the most complex member of the cast, revealing an opaque color, compressed kirsch, plum and cinnamon flavors leading to a well-rounded silky finish with delicate tannins. This is a perfect template for other Washington vintners to follow. | About $20