2009 Carter Hossfeld Coliseum Red
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Tasting notes
Blended of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, the deep garnet colored 2009 Red Blend Hossfeld Vineyard comes roaring out of the glass with bold notions of blackberry tart, baked plums and raspberry pie plus hints of minted cassis, beef drippings, underbrush and tobacco leaf with a waft of incense. The full-bodied palate is laden with juicy black fruit preserves and loads of freshness, framed by slightly chewy tannins, finishing on a lingering minty note.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Medium ruby. Dark berries, licorice, clove oil and violet on the nose, along with a distinctly rocky quality. Densely packed and fat with cassis fruit. A bit monolithic today in its youth but not heavy. In fact, this showed good inner-palate lift with aeration and just needs time in bottle to open. Very fine-grained and long. The merlot in this rocky site comes in with low pH (in this case, about 3.5) and high potential alcohol, noted Mark Carter.
The 2009 Red Blend Hossfeld Coliseum (80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot) shows tons of richness and textural depth in a highly representative expression of the house style. Mocha, espresso, plums, spices and new leather come together beautifully in this opulent, seamless wine. Violets, jasmine and cassis wrap around the generous finish in this gorgeous, supple, finessed wine.
(80% merlot and 20% cabernet sauvignon): Bright medium ruby. High-pitched aromas of blueberry, minerals, violet, licorice and bitter chocolate. Supple and sweet but clenched, with a firm spine of acidity dominating the dark berry, mint and menthol flavors. A distinctly serious merlot that finishes with chewy, slightly drying tannins.