Basel Cellars Inspired Red 07

Inspired by the great Chateaus of St Emillion in Bordeaux, France. We set out to create the Washington State standard for a Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend. This wine is 62% Connor Lee vineyard Merlot and 38% Chelle Den Millie vineyard Cabernet Franc. It was aged for 20 months in new French and American Oak. The aromatic wine is dark red to the rim and has powerful scents of red Currants, Pepper and Cedar. The spicy, meaty flavors of Red Berries and a touch of Mint add to the amazing complexity of this blend. The wine is very rich and is supported by the supple, plush tannins. - the winery

Inspired by one of the greatest wines from St. Emilion in Bordeaux, we set out to create the Washington State standard for a Merlot/Cabernet Franc blend. We couldn't be happier with the results! It simply says RED WINE on the label, but it is so much more than that.

The 2003 Red Wine has a fragrant nose that is reminiscent of sweet plums, raspberry tea, molasses, cinnamon, and mocha. The rich, concentrated mouth has flavors of ripe chocolate-covered cherries and blackberries, and finishes with beautifully integrated tannins. It should easily age for ten years, and perhaps longer.

Wine & Spirits Magazine says: "This blend emphasizes cabernet franc over merlot, especially in its leafy violet and fig aromas. The flavor is all sweet red cherries with plenty of warm oak, franc's slightly herbal pinch notable in the finish. Cellar, then serve with braised beef."