Hidden Asset, Lucas & Lewellen Estate Vineyards Red Wine 2016, Santa Barbara County, California

Tasting Note: A Santa Barbara red blend with an attractive bouquet and body.

Medium-to-deep-intensity ruby in color, this wine has an aromatic, medium-plus-intensity nose of black plum, black currant, raspberry, red cherry, violet blossom and vanilla baking spice.

On the palate the dry, medium-plus-bodied red blend delivers flavors suggested on the nose with more red-fruit elements showing on the palate than on the nose.

The wine is medium in acidity, tannin and finish.

There is balance between the fruit and tannin structure.

A versatile red blend that would pair well with many a meal.

Bottle Note: Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards grows many exciting but lesser known grape varietals. These are our “Hidden Assets.” Choice lots of malbec, merlot, syrah, petite sirah, and cabernet franc, all grown in our premium Santa Barbara County vineyards, were blended for harmonious complexity in a rich, silky, elegant wine. Vineyard: Los Alamos Ranch 2, Block 11 & 7 – 35%, Los Alamos Ranch 3, Blocks 6 & 7 – 33%, Los Alamos Ranch 4, Block 4 – 27%, Valley View Vineyard, Block 12 – 5%. Viticulture: Sustainably farmed, hand harvested. Cooperage: 100% French oak, 21% new. Profile: Dry, full-bodied. Tasting Notes: Flavors of raspberry, red fruit, and pomegranate with a hint of spiciness. Lush and jammy velvety chocolate tannins and a long finish. Royce Lewellen, Proprietor. Megan McGrath Gates, Winemaker. Louis A. Lucas, Grower & Proprietor.

This wine was submitted for review.