Juan Pablo Valot, a native of Argentina, uses a French phrase for “wine blend” on his entry-level proprietary red to provide flexibility. And when he launched Valcan Cellars, he did so with a mélange de vin from the 2011 vintage. That time, it led with Cabernet Sauvignon and backed by Syrah. This time, it’s all Rhône thanks to Petite Sirah (63%) and Syrah (37%) from Belmont Vineyard, and the 20 months in barrel serve this very well. As such, there’s a bit of toast to the aroma that’s filled with cherry, dusty elderberry and lime zest with cinnamon and Baker’s chocolate. On the palate, it’s rich and nicely balanced with dark blue fruit, resolved tannins and a tangy finish that’s available at JP’s young tasting room in McMinnville.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 100 cases
Alcohol: 14.6%
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