Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/44136
SPEED TASTING REPORT Rendezvous No. 7: Rock 'n' Roll Wine This red really showed its chops. "Full nose with cassis, fig and tobacco—hints of Southern Rhône." —Bretton Lami "Aromas of ripe fruit, sage brush—a masculine-styled Syrah, no doubt, with a lovely component of oak. Bring on the leg of bison." —Dean Wachstetter THE REVEAL: House Band Wine Red + 5, California is a non-vintage call brand for nightclubs and music venues that sells for a modest cover charge of $9 (SRP). The grapes are sourced by the wine's founder and négociant, Patrick Krutz, from regions throughout California, including the Sierra Foothills, Central Coast, Lodi and the Sacramento River Delta. Although the blend's lead singer is 60% Merlot, the 30% Syrah (with 10% Cab, Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot) is an excellent back-up. The name Red +5 references these varieties but is also a play on the guest list scenario at clubs. Rendezvous No. 8: High-Definition Syrah A legend from a legendary appellation. Our panel overwhelmingly guessed Northern Rhône for this one! Here are a couple of their comments. "Dried fruit and cherries with black tea and tobacco following suit, along with hints of barnyard." —Derick Rossmiller "Tannins are refined and the palate is amazing with a slew of spices and fruit work- ing in harmony." —Bretton Lammi THE REVEAL: Paul Jaboulet Aîné 2007 Hermitage "La Chapelle" ($250) has become one of the world's most sought-after wines since its famous 1961 vintage, which was classed as one of the "12 mythical wines of the 20th century." The 100% Syrah, from vines as old as 50 years, is a blend of four diverse parcels: Les Bessards, Les Greffeux, Le Méal and Les Rocoules. Each parcel is vinified separately and aged for 15 to 18 months or more in the cellars of the domaine. Imported by Frederick Wildman & Sons Rendezvous No. 9: Rustic Rhône This one instigated some excitement among the group. "A tannic—although lush and rustic—big boy laced with grilled meats up front and toffee caramel on the back." —Meridith May "Savory/sweet, dense and dark with a nearly black center. Tart cranberry and blackberry are present, but there's an austere nature here as well." —Bruno Bonnet THE REVEAL: Austin Hope Troublemaker, Paso Robles (SRP $20). This multi-vintage (2008, '09 and '10) release may refer to Hope's mischief-making reputation as a child, but the intriguing Rhône blend is certainly no trouble to drink. Consisting of 73% Syrah, 12% Grenache, 8% Petite Sirah and 7% Mourvèdre, multiple vintages just add to its complex nature: This winemaker made some wise choices. 78 / the tasting panel / october 201 1 Hope Family Wines Regional Sales Manager Doug Benzenberg and winery General Manager Gretchen Roddick.