This wine from California is a blend of Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petite Sirah. The winemaker describes it as “reminiscent of a blackberry chocolate cupcake with a mocha coulis.” Is your mouth watering yet?
There’s lots of red fruit, especially berries. Flavors of mocha and chocolate show up towards the finish. It is well balanced. The fruit gives the impression of sweetness. The acidity is a bit on the low side, allowing the perceived sweetness of the fruit to come through. The tannins are fairly mild. My personal preference is for something with a bit more acidity and tannins, but this is really a good wine. I think it would go great with a chocolate dessert, or even just some dark chocolate. It’s a rich, velvety flavor.
Perhaps you could serve this with some red velvet cupcakes!
This gets the “very good” rating. However, not everyone enjoys this type of wine. This isn’t your typical red wine with the strong tannins and bold flavors, so consider that before buying.
Wine Details
Producer: Cupcake Vineyards
Vintage: 2009
Appellation: California
Varieties: 47% Zinfandel, 29% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petite Sirah
Alcohol: 13.5% ABV
TA: 0.63 g/100ml
pH: 3.66
Harvest Brix: 24°-26°
Harvest Date: October 2009
Release Date: September 2010
Suggested Retail Price: $13.99 (750 ml)
My Rating: Very Good