A big red blend from Southern Oregon focuses on a ripe sweet plum jam with undertones of coffee and smoke. The Cabernet Franc in the blend brings a desert herb and flint characteristic that would pair well with hearty winter stews or a rich lamb tagine. - Avalon

25% Cabernet Franc, 25% Malbec, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot. All Del Rio Vineyard.

It's a rich, velvety wine with a nice hit of exotic Asian spice from the aromatic Malbec. Enough structure to age, and a real crowd pleaser.

2002 TASTING NOTES

Robert Parker rating 89 points- he says: "Sporting a saturated dark color, the 2002 Claret Del Rio Vineyard is a blend of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Merlot. Its dark, spicy aromatics lead to a medium to full-bodied satiny core of black fruits. Copious quantities of tannin can be found in this structured effort's elongated finish. Anticipated maturity: now-2013."