2019 Valle Seco Red Blend

THE WINE

• 2017 Bodegas Icaro – Icaro (Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, Mexico)
• 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Nebbiolo, 9% Petite Syrah, 8% Petite Verdot

THE LOOK

Clear – Medium ruby red with purple hues on the edge

AROMA

• Fruit Aromas – Dark skinned and blue skinned fruit (Black Cherry, semi-dried plums, black currant)
• Non-Fruit Aromas – Vanilla, Baking Spices, sweet tobacco, very subtle flour/dough note, green vegetal component

THE PALATE

• Entry – Medium viscosity with a slight chalky character.
• Mid palate – Gradual increase in viscosity and becomes more luscious as it goes. Elements of pepper, tart red fruit and tannin.
• Finish – Medium length finish that fades and gives way to chalky tannins with a stem-like green element and medium acidity.

Wine Nerd Stuff

This wine is versatile. It has both finesse and body that show at different points throughout the wine. The mouthfeel and intensity increase at a gradual rate through every point and it crescendos with pepper, spice and all things nice. It reminds me of something I would drink while wearing a Santa hat and ugly Christmas sweater with a silhouette of Rudolf stitched on it. I imagine myself cutting into some roast beast as I can smell the holiday pies baking in the oven. It will warm your bones like a 40oz bottle of malt liquor, but it tastes so much better! This wine is very good now, but I think it will be incredible after resting 5 more years in the bottle.

Drinkability (out of 5 glasses)

• Three out of five

Where to Find

On a Baja wine tour with me, or Wine Bank in Downtown San Diego

Price

$47.99-$65

Value (Poor, Good, Excellent)

• Good

Pairing

• Shredded Lamb and Pancetta Mac n Cheese with a Béchamel Sauce