Leviathon
California
Red Blend

28% Syrah, 26% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Cabernet Franc. Aromas of parchment coffee berries, cracked peppercorn and shiso leaves exude from the glass. Succulent red currants, cassis and dark cherries lure one in, and deliver a smooth, decadent finish with hints of raw cacao, cigar box, pavement and bramble crostata. This new creation has found true varietal balance, encompassing all of our favorite oenological aspects: ruby-cyan hues, mouthwatering acidity, ample but rounded tannins, and a truly insatiable nature.

"Made by Andy Erickson and missing from the fall Rhone Ranger report, the 2009 Leviathan, a blend of 28% Syrah, 26% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 21% Cabernet Franc, starts out tight and oak driven, yet opens up beautifully over the evening to show an overall polished, understated and elegant profile. Exhibiting classy aromas of raspberry and crème de cassis on the nose, with subtle vanilla, herbs, flowers, and licorice all emerging with air, this medium to full-bodied blend is silky and polished on the palate and shows solid mid-palate concentration, a seamless, light texture, and fine grained tannin showing on the finish. There is an upfront nature here, yet I think this has the balance to evolve and drink well for at least 5-6 years, possibly longer. If drinking anytime soon, give bottles an hour in the decanter. 92 Points Rhone Ranger"