2011 Margerum M5
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Tasting notes
(49% grenache, 24% syrah, 9% mourvedre, 6% counoise and 7% cinsault): Bright ruby-red. Highly fragrant scents of fresh raspberry, candied cherry and musky underbrush. Offers lively red berry fruit and spicecake flavors, with a touch of white pepper in the background. Gains sweetness and depth with air, finishing with smooth, even tannins and good spicy cling. There's something vaguely pinot-like going on here.
Critic scores
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Josh Raynolds
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
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Easily my favorite of the lineup, the 2011 M5 is a blend of 49% Grenache, 24% Syrah, 9% Mourvedre and the balance a mix of varieties. It offers a solid array of black cherry fruit, underbrush, hints of licorice and wild herbs that gives way to a medium-bodied, supple and lightly textured palate. Balanced and delicious, with an easygoing, food-friendly feel, it should be enjoyed over the coming 3-4 years. Drink now-2017. This was a strange lineup of wines by owner/winemaker Doug Margerum. I’ve liked these wines much more in the past, but nevertheless, these were all straightforward efforts that lacked depth. Tel. (805) 686-8500; www.margerumwinecompany.com