Blackbird, Arise, Red Wine 2019 (Napa Valley, CA)
Producer Notes: Harvested, vinified, and aged with an identical commitment to quality as Blackbird's principal wines, this classic Napa blend comprised of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon expresses luscious flavors that can only come from exceptional fruit.
Jeb Dunnuck, 93 Points: I loved the nose on the 2019 Arise Proprietary Red, and it's loaded with red and black fruits, darker herbs, chocolate, and peppery nuances. Slightly fresher than the 2018, it's medium to full-bodied, has a great texture, ripe tannins, and shines for its elegance and balance.
James Suckling, 92 Points: Blueberry, blackcurrant and dark-mushroom aromas follow through to a medium body with fine tannins and a juicy, savory finish. Tangy orange rind at the end. 36% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 21% cabernet franc, 8% syrah and 5% petit verdot.
Wine Advocate, 92 Points: The 2019 Arise Proprietary Red is a seductive, svelte blend of 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc, 8% Syrah and 5% Petit Verdot. Full-bodied but nicely supple and polished, it delivers notes of blueberries, cherries, dark chocolate and mocha, then caps those off with a long, velvety finish. Maybe it could use a bit more muscle and concentration, but there's no denying its upfront appeal and elegance. In the context of Napa, it's even reasonably priced.
