2000 Abacela Vintner's Blend

[dananne]

Another nice offering from this unique So. Oregon winery that specializes in tempranillo. For those not wanting to read through a more traditional, detailed TN, consider this "quaffable." [img]http://www.wines.com/ubb2/smile.gif[/img]

Dark red/moving to purple color with a cherry and blackberry nose, hinting of vanilla. A touch heavier than medium weight, with a solid mouthfeel. Flavors of more cherries on the entry, moving over to spices, blackberries, and plum. Maybe black current in there, too, but I have not had them in awhile, so I can't be sure. I could also describe a "bramble" element, though I have to confess a lack of history eating brambles, so it would be an "imagination descriptor." A field blend in the true sense of the word, including bastardo, cab, graciano, zin, and others not labeled (no %ages given). Fine long finish, good tannin structure. Alc. 13.2%. Paid $13.99 at a new local wine bar/shop. It may make a good BBQ wine in place of a zin or syrah. I think the cherry/blackberry core would soften spicy dishes, though the spiciness in it may actually serve as a complement (if that makes any sense). I enjoyed it and would buy it again.