2012 The Arsonist Red Wine

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$27.95 (retail) Wine Club pricing reflected in receipt

This is the newest entry from Crew Wine Company, a remarkable venture based outside of Woodland, CA, that has developed four basic labels, all of which have been showcased at Carpe Vino or through our Wine Club:  Matchbook, Mossback, Chasing Venus and Sawbuck.  Each sub-brand focuses on grapes from specific regions or varietals.  For example, Chasing Venus is all about sauvignon blanc; Matchbook is fueled with grapes exclusively from the Dunnigan Hills in Yolo County, which includes The Arsonist Chardonnay and now The Arsonist Red Wine.

Crew’s founders gained fame just before the turn of the 21st century when they introduced Toasted Head Chardonnay through their R.H. Phillips winery, which was ultimately sold to the mega-firm, Vincorp.  Crew was launched when the principals departed in 2005 to start all over again on their own.  They’ve been very successful, and no doubt much happier being in control of their own destiny.

Winery Tasting Notes:  “Dense, lush and ripe, the Arsonist 2012 Red Blend is the ultimate reminder that, sometimes, it’s perfectly fine to play with fire. A deep garnet red, this blend approaches with strong chocolate and toast aromas—barrel oak, caramel, ripe black cherries and cassis. Flavors of brambly blackberry and coffee lead to a long, lingering mocha finish. The Arsonist is a big, chewy wine with firm tannins that take a long ride on the palate. Pair with baseball-cut steak, barbecued baby back ribs or bacon-wrapped filet mignon.”

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