Troon Vineyard Côtes Du Kubli Rouge Applegate Valley 2018

The Data

Country USA

Appellation Applegate Valley

Varietal Red Blend

Retail Price $45

ABV 12.9%

Score 4.5 Stars/95 points

In the Glass

Appearance

Brilliant purple/ruby color with a mild turbidity signaling a wine that is not heavily filtered.

Aromatics

The nose is moderately intense offering scents of black currant and earth with supporting notes of black cherry, leather, baking spices, and lavender.

Flavor

The palate confirms the nose delivering a black fruit-driven core with flavors of black fruits, pomegranate, and forest floor. The finish is long and lingering with supple tannins with subtle oak accents.

Intensity & Texture

Medium to full-bodied and perfectly balanced with a supple yet vibrant texture.

Cool Factor

We at BevX are huge fans of the wines made at Troon Vineyard and this great Rhone inspired blend is not an exception — very cool.

Value Grade

Selling at $45 a bottle this may not seem like a value to many wine buyers but considering the scarcity (just 400 cases made) and the undeniable quality we do consider this wine to be a good value.

Analysis

We have sampled and enjoyed Rhone inspired red blends previously from Troon but this is the first Syrah dominant Troon wine that we have experienced. It certainly delivers classic Syrah notes of dark fruits with spicy accents while the Grenache provides a juicy and herbal backbone. Troon Vineyard is in the process of replanting their estate vineyard. In this transitional stage Troon is fortunate to have a relationship with their neighbors at Cowhorn Vineyard. The team at Cowhorn are providing Troon with great biodynamic-certified fruit. This lovely red blend was fermented with only natural yeasts and then aged in mature French oak barrels for 14 months. This wine reflects Troon Vineyard's wine making style that focuses on moderate alcohol, bright acidity, and a very light touch of oak.

How to Enjoy

This complex and supple wine is ready to drink now but it will cellar well for at least five years. Please decant this wine before drinking so it will show you its many nuances. Serve with braised or roasted meats.