19 Crimes Red Blend

This is a red blend bottled under the Esplanda label with Massachusetts listed as its appellation. The details on file don't name the grape varieties, so the profile below describes how red blends in this style typically behave, not a measured analysis of this bottle. Red blends of this kind usually combine several dark-skinned varieties to land on ripe black cherry and plum fruit, a medium to full body, moderate tannin, and enough acidity to keep the wine from feeling heavy. Some oak influence, such as vanilla, toast, or a hint of baking spice, is common in the style, and the finish tends to be smooth and medium in length rather than austere. At the table, wines like this suit food with some fat and char. Burgers, barbecued ribs, grilled sausages, and pepperoni or mushroom pizza all work, as do baked pasta dishes and aged cheddar. Tomato-based sauces are a good match because the wine's acidity keeps pace with them. Serve it slightly below room temperature, around 60 to 65°F. About 20 minutes in the refrigerator before opening gets a warm bottle into that range, and it keeps the fruit from tasting jammy or the alcohol from showing. Decanting isn't necessary for a bottle in this category, though pouring it into a glass and letting it sit for ten minutes or so can soften the edges. A standard red wine glass with a moderately wide bowl gives the aromas room to open up. Red blends at this level are made for drinking soon after purchase, not for cellaring, so there is no need to wait. Open it in the near term and enjoy the fruit while it is fresh.