Love these labels! (Instagram pic)
I have to admit that I love these labels. There’s something about the tattoo-like simplicity of the black-on-white that has appealed to me since I first saw these wines released last year. So when I arrived home from the cottage (let’s just forget about the car accident on the way home for now), I was happy to find a bottle of this at home for my review. 2010 was a phenonemal year for big reds like Cabernet and Merlot. This blend is comprised of grapes from 4 different Merlot vineyards (56% overall), 1 Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard (25%) and one Cabernet Franc vineyard (19%).
Vintage Ink 2010 Merlot-Cabernet
The bright cherry liquid has a purple hue to it. As it nears your nose, the fruit hits you first – blackcurrants, black cherries, and ripe plums at first mask anything else. Next, sweet spice and vanilla notes emerge. As I linger, light hints of leather, herbs, and a slight iodine nose emerge. On the palate – juicy dark fruits, sweet and smooth are the first to hit, then the sweet spices before the palate turns to Damson plums. The moderate acidity and tannins provide a light astringent and mouth watering moment before the medium-long cherry finish reminds you that it is indeed time for another sip.
This wine is very drinkable now – I’d pair it with anything from simple burgers to a venison-based shepherd’s pie, or even a veggie pizza.
$17.95. Available in the LCB) Vintages Release on September 12, 2012.
*As noted in the post, this wine was provided for review.