Notice the influx recently of California Red Blends? In the past few years, many have discovered the simple joy of this category of wines that offer plenty of flavor, good structure and usually a sensible price. But this style is nothing new; in fact it has been around for quite a while longer than most varietal wines from the Golden State. Long before California's vineyard average was given over to Merlot, Cabernet and Chardonnay, the typical bottle of red was what we call today "field blend" and was the result of vineyards planted with many varieties, mostly intermixed, although usually with some pattern in mind.

Zinfandel, Alicante and Barbera were planted with Petite Sirah and a little of just about everything else available. At harvest, the different varieties were harvested together, fermented together and turned into a single, singular wine. Rich fruit, spicy flavored and a good degree of alcohol was present in every one.

With the popularity of Cabernet and other more favorable grapes, most of these vineyards have since been pulled up and planted with single varieties. But fortunately, some of these vineyards still exist, or at
least some producers still have a taste for these blends, and continue to grow all of these 'other' grapes...ferment them separately and blend the finished wines to help recreate this once again popular wine!

I believe Ridge has still maintained the Geyserville Vineyard with grapes other than just Zinfandel, and their Geyserville bottling is an excellent indication of this style, if a little pricier than most.

Next time you are in ABC, look for these values! Try Shannon Ridge Wrangler Red, a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Cabernet, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel...ripe and supple fruit, spicy fresh fruit and lots of bang for the buck!

Shayne Hebert, Central Florida Wine Supervisor

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