It was one of those crystal-clear, blue sky kind of days, perfect for visiting some new and interesting wineries. When we spend time in and around St Helena, we always seem to happen on a new winery. However, on this day, I had a purpose. I was seeking out Cosentino Winery and their new tasting room. I was not disappointed.
Cosentino Winery The Poet
Red Meritage
Cosentino Winery was established in 1990 with the soul purpose of creating a world-class Merlot. What ultimately came from that endeavor, among many others, was the Cosentino Winery The Poet – Red Meritage. An interesting fact is all the vines that are used to create this delight are right behind the tasting room.
In the years that followed their inception, they developed a respected reputation for their blends. In 2011 Vintage Wine Estates acquired Cosentino Winery. Their first order of business was to upgrade the tasting room, the second was to work on expanding the wines distribution for the label, and the rest is history. It is a beautiful new tasting room.
You might be wondering what is Meritage? There are two types of Meritage – red and white. I’d like to focus on Red Meritage. To quote the Meritage Alliance:
“Red Meritage wines historically have been among the world’s most highly rated wines. They’re prized for their smooth, silky texture and complex, robust structure. While they age beautifully – often for decades – most are also very drinkable in their younger years.
A Red Meritage is a blend of two or more of the red “noble” Bordeaux varieties – Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot and the rarer St. Macaire, Gros Verdot and Carmenère. If the blend includes any other grape variety, it is, by definition, not a Meritage. Also, to qualify as a Meritage, no single grape variety can make up more than 90% of the blend.”
After talking with the hospitality manager at Cosentino Winery and tasting their wine, I will say they certainly have succeeded in achieving both goals with a world class Merlot and Meritage. I could taste all that is noted in what a Meritage is to possess. It was nothing short of awesome.
This is what the winemaker has to say about their Cosentino Winery The Poet – Red Meritage:
“Elegant and full-bodied, our flagship wine is rich with notes of dark fruit, mocha and toasted spices. As the wine opens, the palate showcases leather, crushed herbs and hints of anise. Drink now or cellar up to 15 years.
Pairs well with:
– Cheese: Smoked Gouda, Gorgonzola, Comte
– Meat and Poultry: Coq au vin, grilled skirt steak
– Dessert: Flourless chocolate torte, chocolate mousse with a cherry reduction
Cosentino Winery The Poet – Red Meritage can be found on their website, or many quality wine purveyors. Give it a try and ask for it.
As always, it was a lovely day in and around that area. Gosh, maybe I should move there. I know it would be a blast if I did, and what fun I would have showcasing all the new wines I would find.
Time for a glass…
If you enjoyed reading about “Cosentino Winery The Poet – Red Meritage,” check out Peirano Estate Vineyards Merlot, McConnell Estates Winery Merlot, and Rutherford Hill Merlot.
P.S.: Check out a few of my favorite wine tools and resources below. 🙂