Taken 2017 Red Blend, Napa Valley

The latest release from Taken Wine Company. Two young men from Napa Valley have taken the wine world by storm. Profiled in Forbes and Zagat 30 under 30, featured on the Today Show on NBC profiled in 40 Under 40 in Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Long time friends and from wine growing families, Carlo Trinchero and Josh Phelps decided to start their own wine making venture. As they thought of names and searched them for trademarks everything they liked was taken, so that's what they decided to call their business, Taken Wine Company.

Their focus was to make great Napa Valley wine at an affordable price and having some close grower relations and wine grapes in their blood, they hit the ground running. This latest release from the very fine 2017 vintage of their classic red blend is a true winner. 44% Zinfandel, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 6% Petite Sirah and 2% Malbec aged 18 months in 50% new oak barrels, 50% French, 25% American, 25% Hungarian.

This wine shows aromas of dried raspberries and plums along with berries and baked fruits. It's opulent and approachable with a silky palate and flavors of maraschino cherry, sweet currant and crushed violets leading to a soft, silky, lingering finish.   

James Suckling scored this 90 points saying "Aromas of roses and a savory, tarry edge here, as well as mulberries and violets. Medium body, smooth and fine tannins and a plush, red-berry finish. A blend of 44% zinfandel, 37% cabernet sauvignon, 11% merlot, 6% petite sirah and 2% malbec. Drink or hold."

Wine Enthusiast Magazine scored this 90 points saying "Powerfully concentrated in brooding black fruit, cedar and oak, this blend of mostly Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon has strong bones and layered texture. The tannins are supple and supportive, allowing the fruit to speak volumes."