Inspired Wine Club: April 2009

Rhône Rangers to the rescue!

This month we take you a little on the wild side with a pair of lovely red “Rhône Rangers” that are perfect for those rainy spring days when the weather isn’t quite as warm as a new spring promises. Both wines have a bit of fruitiness to keep the hope of nearing warm days alive as they help you dispense with any lingering winter chill. They’re also a perfect accompaniment as you renew life at your backyard grill.

Robert Hall Rhône de Robles 2006 – Paso Robles

Robert Parker has said that creative blending in these wines is what is producing some of the best Rhône wines in California, and here is a wonderful example of that. The wine is predominantly split between Grenache and Syrah, but enhanced by the addition of Cinsault to offset the high alcohol of the Grenache and the tannins of the Syrah, and a wee bit of Counoise that augments the deep fruity flavors. Robert Hall has produced a deep ruby red with cherry and cranberry flavors to accompany Spring’s budding cherry blossoms. The hints of black pepper and spice and tamed, silky tannins make it a wonderful wine for a hearty meal, such as grilled steak or a robust beef or lamb stew.

Matchbook Syrah 2005 – Napa Valley

This wine will light your fire! As a nod to his own wild, pyro-maniacal days, John Giguiere founded Matchbook winery. And this Syrah will certainly warm you up. Including about 10 percent Cabernet, the wine presents full-bodied with raspberry, spice, tobacco and cassis flavors and a hint of vanilla to finish. The Cab addition helps with the wine’s structure and smoothes the Syrah’s touchy tannins. This is a particularly good year, too. Due to their length on the vines, these grapes started out high quality, and their time spent in a combination of new French oak and older barrels created a wonderful richness. This is a wine that is up to pairing with spicy sausages, cured meats and other grilled meats such as chicken, beef and lamb.

Special Case Pricing Available Wine Club Members Only
Robert Hall Red $215.89/case ($17.99/btl) Matchbook Syrah $151.09/case ($12.59/btl)

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