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Girardet Wine Cellars 2011 Touch Down Red, Umpqua Valley, $15
Best Buy! Marc Girardet made headlines last summer after he made a flawless emergency landing on Interstate 5 near Roseburg in his Cessna 177 Cardinal RG. Now, the Southern Oregon winemaker also is attracting attention with this eclectic blend of Landot Noir (22%), Chancellor (22%), Zinfandel, Tempranillo, Syrah, Maréchal Foch (10%), Pinot Noir and Gamay Noir. That more than half the juice comes from hybrids explains the foxy nature of the nose, which also includes black cherry and mulling spices. The drink is fruity, easy and surprisingly mouthwatering with strawberry, red currant, pomegranate and watermelon rind. A touch of orange pekoa tea in the finish adds a bit of grip for balance. Enjoy it with a bit of chill, serve with cured meats, cheese and fruit on the patio — and toast the piloting skills of this second-generation vintner.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 400 cases
Alcohol: 13%
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