2005 Curtis Heritage Cuvée, Santa Barbara County.
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This wine is a medium depth garnet color, with good clarity, taking on magenta hues at the rim. Medium intensity aromas of ripe, fleshy strawberries and light intensity vanilla are given dimension by floral notes and brown spices (cinnamon more than nutmeg and clove). Starting with medium intensity white pepper on entry, this wine also offers light red fruit (with strawberry being most distinct), vanilla and spice and a hint of white chocolate. A medium body with a lightly dusty texture with a creamy edge, this wine has a lightly fleshy and supple mouthfeel with tannin astringency somewhere between tea and fresh walnut skins. The long finish is somewhat one-dimensional with strawberry followed by some heat and ending dry and slightly astringent. |
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Production Detail: A blend of 45% Syrah, 23% Mourvèdre, 17% Grenache and 14% Cinsault from Curtis estate vineyards and Vogelzang Vineyard Viognier. Built for easy approachability and value, this blend is aged 18 months in 97% French and 3% American oak barrels. 14.9% Alcohol $18.00 Retail (from winery); 3,781 cases produced |
BOTTOM LINE: Good, with appealing characteristics. Recommended. |
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This Syrah-based blend offers a nuanced nose and becomes very rich and opulent in the mouth. It benefits from decanting which allows the aromatics to fill out the structure. With time and air the entire composition becomes more balanced with the alcohol levels. This wine is offers fairly good food friendliness and stand-alone drinkability. Pair with red meats and game over the next five to seven years. |
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Learn about: |
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Color |
5 points |
(5 points max) |
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Nose |
4 points |
(5 points max) |
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Palate |
4 points |
(5 points max) |
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Finish |
2 points |
(5 points max) |
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Tannins/Minerality |
5 points |
(5 points max) |
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Acidity |
5 points |
(5 points max) |
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Alcohol |
4 points |
(5 points max) |
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Aging potential |
3 points |
(5 points max) |
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Overall quality |
8 points |
(10 points max) |
Cumulative Score: 90 Points
Rating System & Scoring Criteria explained
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