So is there a definition of a red wine? Not really. The winemaker can call the red wine anything. It can be a special name like Magnificat, Joseph Phelps Insignia, Verite La Joie, etc. The TTB does have requirements for when the winemaker calls the wine Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. Here is a brief outline.
Variety labeling:
o Grape Variety (the fruit).
- Must be 75% of that fruit.
- Can be blended with other grapes, up to 24.9%.
o Vintage date.
- Year in which the grapes were harvested.
- 2010 harvest is a 2010 vintage.
- 95% of the fruit must come from that year.
o Reserve, this one is interesting as there is no legal definition for this term and it can be anything the winemaker wants it to be. For some, it is the best of the best fruit of that vintage, but be cautious as some may simply be trying to sell their wine at a premium price.
If you want to learn more about US wine Label laws I have detailed them in a blog. Reading US Wine Labels.
Sight
Medium color depth, garnet hue.
Smell
Aromatic, slightly earthy with aromas of plum, cherry, and cocoa.
Taste
Dry, full-bodied with balanced acidity. Rich, savory palate, soft tannins with a long finish.
ABV: 14.5%
How much: $39.99 retail
Region/Appellation: Napa Valley
Grape blend: 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 3% Malbec, & 1% Petite Verdot
I rated the 2006 Franciscan Estate Magnificat four glasses.
Life is too short to drink crappy wine. Expand your palate and keep trying.
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