2010 Blackbird Arise
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Tasting notes
The 2010 Proprietary Red Arise, a blend of 61% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 19% Cabernet Franc, reveals an impressive dark ruby/purple color as well as a sweet nose of roasted coffee, blackberries and cassis. Delicious, round, opulent and decadently fruity and forward, this crowd-pleasing, head-turning 2010 possesses lots of character. It should drink well for a decade. 2011 was, of course, a much more challenging vintage, and these cuvees have slightly lower alcohols than in 2010. Tel. (707) 252-4444
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(61% merlot, 20% cabernet franc and 19% cabernet sauvignon; the highest in alcohol of these 2010 reds, at 14.8%; the other three show 14.5% on the label): Dark red with ruby highlights. Sexy aromas of black raspberry, dark chocolate, licorice, minerals and flowers. Sappy and densely packed, with crushed raspberry, kirsch and licorice flavors accented by distinctly cool pepper and herb notes. There's explosive black cherry fruit here but this sharply delineated, vibrant wine is extremely young and clenched today. The firm tannins are more than supported by strong fruit. Finishes with terrific energy and sneaky length.