Reviews & Ratings

2011 Dry Creek Vineyard Red Blends or Varietals "The Mariner"

Winery: Dry Creek Vineyard

Vintage: 2011

Wine Name/Vineyard: "The Mariner"

Wine Category: Red Blends or Varietals

Grape blend: 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot, & 4% Malbec

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Dry Creek Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $45

Cases produced: 2,037

KWG Score: 88.8 (based on 5 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good (89)

Review date: January 3, 2015

Wine Review: This very very dark ruby colored blend from the Dry Creek opens with mild dark berry bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium to full bodied, slightly acidic and juicy. The flavor profile is a mild mineral infused mild cranberry and black plum blend. I also detected a hint of oak and touch of boysenberry as well. The finish is dry and its fruit flavors linger nicely. This wine would pair nicely with slow cooked braised short ribs. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: The grapes for this delicious Bordeaux-inspired blend come from several of our most prized estate and hillside vineyards in the Dry Creek Valley. Initially, the aromatics are bright and earthy with cherries, Herbs de Provence and fresh boysenberries emanating from the glass. Several more minutes reveal hints of tarragon, nutmeg, black tea and blueberry nuances. The palate displays layers of texture and complexity with provocative flavors of rhubarb, Asian plums and Bing cherries. The tannins are soft and supple leading to a silky smooth finish. The 2011 vintage came with its share of weather related challenges during harvest however; we were able to successfully navigate this tricky vintage to produce an outstanding, full bodied wine.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Dry Creek Vineyard 2011 The Mariner.