This is the Matchbook "left of center" twist on a Bordeaux blend: 52% Petit Verdot, 26% Malbec, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon. The robust Petit Verdot is beautifully tamed by the Malbec and Cabernet. Power and grace in a bottle!
History of Success: 4 consecutive years of 90+ point wines by Wine Enthusiast!
The 2016 Arsonist Red Blend has expansive aromas of violet, rose petal, saddle leather and orange peel. Broad flavors of blackberry, plum and cassis fill the palate; a hint of dark chocolate and baking spice adds complexity to the blend. Firm, but refined tannins add good structure and long, silky finish. This robust red is delicious now and will age gracefully for those with the patience to wait.
Production Notes
Petit Verdot (52%): The backbone of The Arsonist Red Blend, this thick-skinned grape yields concentrated, tannic wines with lots of color. Aged properly, Petit Verdot rounds out to develop rich, thick, full-structured wines. The Petit Verdot for this blend is from our Matchbook Estate Vineyards in the Dunnigan Hills.
Malbec (26%): This deeply colored grape contributes inky dark color, tannins and flavors of plum and dark chocolate to the blend. The Malbec in the 2016 Arsonist Red Blend adds to the richness of the mid-palate and is from our Matchbook Estate Vineyards in the Dunnigan Hills.
Cabernet Sauvignon (22%): A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon grown in Chalk Hill, Alexander Valley and the Dunnigan Hills adds length and depth to The Arsonist Red Blend. Due to its thick skin, Cabernet Sauvignon develops deep blue hues of black fruit with big tannins that allow the blend to develop and age well over the years.
Pairings
Pair this layered and complex red blend with a Filet Mignon, slow-roasted Osso Buco or peppercorn-crusted New York strip steak.
