2017 Contrarian Red Blend
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Tasting notes
Based on 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Cabernet Franc, and just a splash of Merlot, the 2017 Contrarian Proprietary Red has a bright, juicy style as well as notes of black plums, currants, ground herbs, and dark chocolate. It's nicely concentrated, has elevated acidity, good purity, and fine tannins. It's going to age for 15-20 years at a minimum.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Cabernet Sauvignon takes the leading role in the 2017 Contrarian. Dark red and black fruit, grilled herbs, menthol, licorice, spice, leather and incense give the 2017 striking aromatic nuance. Deep and plush on the palate with plenty of supporting structure, the 2017 is another winner in this range.
A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Cabernet Franc and 1% Merlot, the 2017 Contrarian Proprietary Red sports a deep garnet-purple color. It needs a little coaxing to reveal notes of baked blackcurrants, fruitcake and tilled soil with hints of fallen leaves, yeast extract and dark chocolate. Medium to full bodied, the palate has a core of taut, muscular black fruit with firm, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing on a provocative mineral note. 1133 cases were made.
The 2017 Contrarian is another terrific wine from Blackbird in this vintage. Sweet red and purplish berry fruit, mint, spice and floral notes abound. The 2017 is plush and overt, and yet it also has good supporting structure and plenty of potential.