2016 Blackbird Illustration
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The Merlot-dominated 2016 Illustration Proprietary Red Wine (there's 21% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon) is also impressive, with a smoky, black cherry, blackberry, leafy herb, and earthy style in its medium to full-bodied, layered, structured personality. I love its purity, and like the Contrarian, it has a firm, focused style that's going to benefit from short-term cellaring. Nevertheless, it's a seriously good Merlot!
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Illustration, Blackbird's Merlot-based wine, is plump, juicy and forward. Chocolate, espresso, mint, dried flowers and dark plum meld together in an approachable, delicious wine that can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring.
The 2016 Illustration Proprietary Red is a blend of 78% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon. It's deep garnet-purple colored and gives up bags of savory scents—tapenade, smoked meats, truffles and bay leaves—over a core of kirsch, cassis and mulberries plus a waft of fallen leaves. Medium-bodied and tightly wound in the mouth, it has a chewy texture and oodles of freshness, finishing long and earthy. 485 cases were made.