Reviews & Ratings

2017 Blackbird Vineyards Red Blends or Varietals "Contrarian"

Winery: Blackbird Vineyards

Vintage: 2017

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Contrarian"

Wine Category: Red Blends or Varietals

Grape blend: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Cabernet Franc & 1% Merlot

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Napa Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $135

Cases produced: 1,100

KWG Score: 92.7 (based on 4 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Excellent (94)

Review date: December 3, 2020

Wine Review: This very dark garnet colored Cabernet Sauvignon based blend opens with a black currant and wet gravel bouquet with hints of black cherry, bay leaf and cedar. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, slightly acidic and savory. The flavor profile is a crushed stone and black currant blend with notes of black cherry, black tea and gentle cedar. We also detected hints of black olive and black pepper. The finish is dry and its dusty tannins and fruit are very nicely extended. The Panel felt this wine could certainly be enjoyed on it own. With food they would suggest pairing it with a grilled skirt steak or roast beef with Yorkshire pudding. Enjoy – KWGTP

Winemaker Notes: Expressive with savory notes of tobacco, cedar, coffee and black licorice, Contrarian is the most powerful of the Blackbird trio. Great density with hints of tobacco, cedar, plum, black cherry and black truffle. Contrarian boasts a rich and elegant texture on the mid palate and finishes with plush tannins, black truffle, tobacco, coffee and black currants.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Blackbird 2017 Contrarian.