Last week in Vancouver was the California Wine Fair, which comes every year at this time, with proceeds to support the Arts Club Theatre Company. It is always interesting to try the big California Cabernets and Chardonnays that they are famous for, but there are also Pinot Noir, sparkling wines, and blends that should not be overlooked.
One red blend that caught my eye and tastebuds was the Wagner Conundrum Red Blend, 2011 vintage. The grapes are sourced from Napa, Monterey, Santa Barbara and Tulare counties. The screw cap closure keeps the wine fresh and fruity.
The Blend?
Which grapes go into this blend? I don’t know. They do not tell you on their website, but with the counties shown, you could guess that maybe one of the most popular grape variety from each region could go into the blend. If we try this, which grapes would we get? Zinfandel (Napa), Merlot (Monterey), Syrah (Santa Barbara), and Grenache or Mourvedre (Tulare). I did not select Cabernet Sauvignon as I think this would be the most expensive grape to purchase, and with this wines lower price point, I do not think it is possible. Only the wine maker really knows, but I think a combination of these grapes could produce the aroma and flavour profile which I will now describe.
Wagner Conundrum Red Blend, 2011 (BC $24.99) Review
On the nose, I get flowers, some lavendar, berries and spice. It is full bodied, dry but with a soft velvety feel in the mouth. Very fruit forward with flavours of red & black cherries, and other dark fruits. The wine maker describes the wine as a bit off dry and that bit of sweetness should make this wine pair with anything that you put on your barbeque grill. I think that it would be a good pairing also. A fun wine to drink, so pick up a bottle and start your summer now!
The wine is available as a general listing through the BC Liquor stores and can be viewed at this link: Conundrum Red Blend at the BCLDB.
Are you curious about the other wines I enjoyed at the California Wine Fair? Read my other wine picks here.
Enjoy.
