Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/49694
Tasting Notes Like any enriching story, a good wine blend must contain a measure of depth and character deep enough to sway the very soul of its intended audience. This noble principle is something that the winemakers of the Temecula Valley take very seriously from the moment a blend is conceptualized. The following tasting notes that follow provide a tantalizing glimpse into a few of the potable tales that are being spun from this appellation. Lorimar Vineyards and Winery 2008 Adagio ($32) The entire harvesting process can be experienced in this blend consisting of 50% Merlot, 30% Petit Verdot and 20% Malbec. Pronounced barnyard aromatics give way to pleasant cherry and blackberry notes on the palate, segueing to hints of spicy cinnamon on the back end. Monte De Oro Winery 2005 Synergy 65 ($33) the progressive sensibilities among Southern California wine drinkers. "More and more people from San Diego, Orange County and Los Angeles want to find out what they have in their backyard," explains David Bradley, winemaker at Vindemia Vineyard & Estate Winery. "And since the younger generation tends to be driven more by palate than by grape, blends will only keep getting more popular." This is nothing short of tremendous news for the wine blend aficionado. For this means that the winemakers of Temecula Valley will continue to conjure up unique characters and sum- mon various plot points, creating epic bottled chronicles for years to come. Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Zinfandel collaborate to create this award-winning, indulgent blend. Its rich caramel nose sets the stage for rich cherry, fig, and vanilla notes and an elegant, velvety mouthfeel. Robert Renzoni Vineyards 2007 Concerto ($32) A blend of 67% Zinfandel, 17% Syrah and 16% Merlot. The exquisitely rounded red is marked with a lush vegetal expression bookmarked by subtle berry notes and a smooth, lengthy finish. Falkner Winery 2007 Amante Super Tuscan Style Red ($39.95) A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Bold in its overall composition, the red is marked with a robust pomegran- ate bouquet and accessible flavors of licorice, blackberry and dried cherry. David Bradley of Vindemia Vineyard & Estate Winery pours a blend. december 201 1 / the tasting panel / 65