Reviews & Ratings

2008 Hess Collection Red Blends or Varietals "19 Block Cuvee"

Winery: Hess Collection

Vintage: 2008

Wine Name/Vineyard: "19 Block Cuvee"

Wine Category: Red Blends or Varietals

Grape blend: 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Malbec, 9% Syrah, 7% Merlot, & 1% Petit Verdot

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Napa Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $36

Cases produced: 19,100

KWG Score: 88.4 (based on 5 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (90)

Review date: November 11, 2012

Wine Review: This very dark ruby colored red blend opens with a cranberry and black currant like bouquet with a hint of eucalyptus. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, slightly acidic, yet round in the mouth. It displays pleasant mild black currant flavors with hints of old oak, black licorice, and plum. The finish is dry and its moderate tannins are sticky and linger for a bit. This wine would pair well with braised short ribs. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: The 2009 19 Block has aromas of cedar and black licorice. A rich entry of black cherry and ripe plum is supported in the mid-palate by oak nuances of vanilla, caramel and graham cracker. A long, silky finish of polished tannins suggest immediate approachability but the wine will continue to improve over the next 3-4 years. The layers of flavor in this wine pair well with complex foods, including braised or grilled meats like lamb, pork or duck; spring or sweet onions; earthy flavors such as mushrooms, eggplant and fennel.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Hess Collection 2008 19 Block Cuvee.