2022 Aperture Cellars Red Blend, Alexander Valley, USA (750ml)

WINEMAKER'S NOTES:

For this vintage, they crafted a distinct Bordeaux blend, composed of primarily Merlot and Malbec, with a delicately balancing of smallerinclusion of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. The ripe red fruit characters are structured by silky seamless tannins, showcasing an elegant density to the blend. 

Blend: 36% Malbec35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc

TASTING NOTES:

This opulent Malbec-forward blend delivers loads of crushed blueberry, black plum, coffee and sage aromas on the nose, while the palate displays hearty tannic structure with lavish acidity and flavors of currant, cassis, shattered granite, dark chocolate and licorice. Rest this in the cellar for a decade or more and grill the biggest steak you can find.

- Wine Enthusiast, 97 pts. 

A vibrant, layered blend of 36% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, and a final 5% of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, this wine brings freshness and perfume to the classic Bordeaux framework. The nose opens with a mix of black and red berries, wet roses, and subtle green undertones that add aromatic tension. On the palate, it’s compact, with dusty tannins and a warm finish that carries notes of spiced cocoa. A wine that feels both youthful and has the structure to evolve.

- Decanter, 94 pts. 

The 2022 Bordeaux Red Blend is a blend of 36% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, and a splash of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. A more saturated red color, it’s pretty and floral with hints of mocha, purple flowers, black raspberries, and red-fruited highlights. The palate is full and ripe, with a plush and well-detailed feel and a long finish. Although it offers more immediate appeal in the vintage, it should have a wide window to show its best over the next 12-15 years.

- Jeb Dunnuck, 94 pts. 

The 2022 Bordeaux Red Blend is composed of 36% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc. Matured for 18 months in 50% new French oak, it bursts from the glass with pure red cherry and pomegranate perfume, unfurling nuances of lavender, forest floor and glossy new oak as it opens in the glass. The medium-bodied palate features generous, floral fruit. It’s structured by powdery tannins and juicy acidity and has a long, layered finish.

- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 93 pts. 

Brooding and detailed, with plenty to admire in its mix of blackberry syrup, blueberry and huckleberry flavors, plus cigar box, paprika, cumin and dried herbal details, all on a dense and velvety frame. Notes of espresso and bittersweet chocolate linger on the long, expressive finish. Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2034. 8,470 cases made.

- Wine Spectator, 93 pts. 

An elegant but rich and ripe Bordeaux-style blend that’s not too tight with tannins and features broad, opulent black fruit flavors and generous oak spices. Full-bodied, sleek and luxurious. Drink now or hold.

- James Suckling, 92 pts.