2008 Blackbird Arise

Also composed of primarily Merlot with small quantities of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, the 2008 Arise reveals a sweeter, chocolate/cocoa scent intermixed with abundant notes of black currants, cherries and subtle herbs. With silky tannins and a fleshy, sexy, opulent personality, the wine lingers in the mouth. Both the Illustration and Arise will drink nicely for a decade or more. This is a project of up-and-coming wine consultants, Aaron Pott and Sara Gott. The goal is to produce Right Bank Bordeaux-styled wines from various blends. As I wrote last year in issue #186, I thought the 2006s and 2007s were strong offerings, and the four outstanding efforts in 2008 are better than the 2006s, but not quite as good as the 2007s because they are less opulent and exuberant. Nevertheless, they are rich, expressive wines made from fruit grown in the Oak Knoll region of the southern Napa Valley. Tel. (707) 252-4444; Fax (707) 252-9999