Reviews & Ratings

2018 Dry Creek Vineyard Red Blends or Varietals "The Mariner"

Winery: Dry Creek Vineyard

Vintage: 2018

Wine Name/Vineyard: "The Mariner"

Wine Category: Red Blends or Varietals

Grape blend: 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 8% Malbec, 8% Petit Verdot & 3% Cabernet Franc

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Dry Creek Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $60

Cases produced: 2,986

KWG Score: 89.3 (based on 3 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (91)

Review date: April 8, 2022

Wine Review: This deep purple colored Cabernet Sauvignon based blend has a very intense bouquet of black currant and boysenberry, with notes of cedar, chocolate, and moist soil. It is full bodied and dense, with moderate acidity and a very juicy and textured mouthfeel. There are black currant, black cherry, and blackberry fruit flavors. I also detected some vanilla oak, spice, dried herbs, and earthy notes. The tannins are grippy and plentiful, and the finish is dry and long lasting. With a little patience it really comes together after 30 minutes in the glass. It is very food friendly and would pair well with smoked brisket. - Mark

Winemaker Notes: The Mariner is a powerful, yet elegant Meritage made in the tradition of some of the world’s greatest Bordeaux blends. At first swirl, the wine displays aromas of black currant, black cherry, and dried cranberry. Several more minutes reveal hints of white pepper, cumin, mocha and violet. The palate has dark berry flavors along with earthy complexity and savory tones. It finishes with notes of baking spices, dried herbs, and vanilla. Good acidity will help this wine to age beautifully for years to come.

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