Three Birds Sonoma County Red Rhone Blend

Violet color with kirsch, spice, orange zest and sandalwood aromas. On the palate there is a ample black cherry, blackberry, and raspberry fruit, with a hint of smoked meat wrapped around a firm spine of acidity with an appealing minerality. 78% Grenache, 15% Mourvedre, 6% Syrah 14.9% alcohol

Thunderously dark fruit, fab tannins, getting better as thus lovely night unfolds.

Ruby color with smokey kirsch, baked plum, raspberry and a hint of white pepper aromas. On the palate, it medium-bodied with a supple texture, and dusty well-integrated tannins. It shows cherry, raspberry and sweet spice flavors with an appealing minerality, and a lengthy finish. Blend of 78% grenache, 16% mourvedre and 6% syrah, from 5 different sites. 14.9% alcohol.

As close you can get to Chateauneuf du Pape this side of the world on an a good vintage

Thankfully it was used for cooking. Flat and slight heat showing.

A little hot at first, but after an hour or so of air, the wine came together wonderfully.

At the very end of its projected life, this wine surprised me with a subtle blend of cherry, blackberry and a very light chocolate. Nice tannins, substantial body, and silky mouthfeel. This wine isn't what it was five or ten years ago, it's much friendlier without being tired. This wine cost $25 when it was released; that's about $40 in 2017 dollars-definitely a bargain!

2011 vintage.

First night this was dark and smooth. A little acid became lots of acid at 60 minutes. Day 2 no acid and much more enjoyable. I'd hold this if you own it. Good QPR at $19.

Interesting. Syrah on the front end and Grenache on the back. Peak ripeness.