Region and Vineyards
This wine comes from Napa Valley, a renowned wine region known for its high-quality wines. The vineyards benefit from an ideal climate with hot summers and cool autumns, allowing optimal ripening of the grapes. The diverse soils, ranging from rich alluvial to volcanic soils, contribute to the complexity and depth of the wine.
Winemaking
The Lion Tamer Red Blend consists of 47% Malbec, 24% Zinfandel, 19% Petite Sirah, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Petit Verdot, and 1% Carignan. The grapes are hand-harvested. The wine is aged for 22 months in French oak barrels, 40% of which are new, adding subtle toasted oak and vanilla nuances to the wine's profile.
Fun Fact
The name "Lion Tamer" has become the nickname for Malbec within the cellar, as this grape is used to soften the powerful tannins of the other varieties, making the wine more harmonious and pleasant on the palate.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep red with purple highlights.
- Aroma: Intense aromas of black plum and blackcurrant, with subtle notes of cocoa and vanilla.
- Palate: The palate is rich and velvety, with concentrated flavors of black fruits (plum, blackcurrant), enveloped by supple, well-integrated tannins. Toasted oak and dark chocolate notes add complexity, and the finish is long and elegant, with a touch of sweetness from the Malbec.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Grilled ribeye steak with pepper sauce
- Lamb stew with Provençal herbs
- Aged cheeses like aged Gouda or blue cheese
- Dark chocolate with cocoa nibs
