When Napa Valley winemakers work with grape varietals and put their own “twist” on them, the results are often bold. With climate and style added to the mix, the results can be something to raise a glass to. The results for many are deep, dark, and even brooding.
Treating a red blend like a work of art, the Mi Sueño Winery has put forth a beautiful series of red wines that are simply delicious. With over 25 years of experience building a business from the ground up and working with varietals imported from all over Europe, their winemaker knows how to extract the best that each vintage has to offer. As their access to fruit from across California continues to improve, their red wines are continuing to garner a lot of attention.
One of their ongoing creative flagships is Mi Sueño El Llano. With Cab and Syrah married in a blend that is loaded with expression, its deep ruby color gives a not-so-subtle hint of what’s to come.
Even their gracefully-aged 2009 vintage remains spicy, while maintaining a deeply accented structure. The bouquet has a definite background of plum and earth. You would expect there to be more spice on the body, but it is actually quite soft with a gradual fade on the finish that many older wines exhibit.
When compared to older vintages, like the 2009, their recent vintages provide an excellent contrast, not only between vintages, but also just how far Mi Sueño (My Dream) has come over the years. These remain big wines with much to express.
Pair with a hearty red meat meal and this guy will not disappoint. With our cooler nights dotted with celebrations into the new year, wines like this are a must. It’s also priced just right in the $40 range, making El Llano quite competitive with other wines priced well into the $60’s. AJs has access to their full line, but you may have to order it from their Wine Cellar department in advance.
They also offer 100% Syrahs and Cabernets for the purists. Their Syrah may be among the biggest out there, as the purple smiles can attest to at their tasting room. For certain, this is one you have to work up to in a progressive tasting flight and serve with food if at all possible.
So, here’s to Napa’s 2015 vintage, of which Mi Sueño has taken full advantage!