My wine mentors gifted me with a really nice wine. They often describe the wine they like as having a "complexity of taste." Now, I have to admit, the understanding of what that meant has been very vague — that is, until I tasted this wine. EUREKA! I get it!!!
There are so many layers to the aroma and taste, I'm almost afraid to attempt a review. But, I want to, because I feel this is probably a step up in my education about wine.
On the nose, I smell a lot of smoky currant, some floral scents and earthy moss. However, describing the taste gets a bit more complicated. Starting with a smoky, slightly biting herbal taste, it exploded in my mouth and seems to communicate with every taste bud... the ones that identify saltiness, the ones that communicate sweetness and, even, the ones at the back that recognize herbal bitterness. And, all the time, there's this smokey rose (for lack of a better description) savor that just kind of fills in the empty spots of my mouth. I think this may be what the expert reviewers call "chewy."
Now, what food to pair this wine with... I can't help you there. I will tell you the taste sent me to the kitchen to gather some dates (which I happen to have fallen in love with just recently), nuts and blue cheese. But, I can imagine it pairing extremely well with rich, meaty entrees, such as prime rib or beef stroganoff, or a bold primavera, not to mention the traditionally rich holiday dinner.
If you're ready to move beyond the party/generic/everyday safe wines, this wine needs to be your entree. I would rate it 92, at least. And, without question, I would have to list it in my top 10 favorites. Almost 14% alcohol, so please drink responsibly.
RECOMMENDATION: Pick it up for your holiday dinner. Not only will you impress your guests, it'll help you deal with the inevitable family drama!
Cheers and happy holidays, everyone! May your days be merry and bright for many years to come!
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