Hope Family Troublemaker Red Blend 16,2423 (Hope Family Wines)

Drink now or cellar for up to 6 years Decanting time: Serve upon opening or decant up to an hour. A powerful, elegant blend that is characteristically Paso yet Rhone inspired. Troublemaker’s multi-vintage, multi-varietal approach--from sustainably grown grapes, no less--brings the craftsmanship behind the wine onto centre stage. An unobtrusive yet decisively bold offering, Troublemaker is the brainchild of Winemaker Austin Hope, who intended to make a full-flavoured offering with just the right amount of attitude, ready to enjoy upon release. Aged in French oak barriques for approximately 14 months. Lively aromas of red cherry and black licorice with well-constructed hints of vanilla, nutmeg and tobacco melt into a complex bouquet with a floral top note that connotes the interwoven depth of artisan cured meats. Flavours of fresh, red berries underscored with subtle notes of dark chocolate, pepper, anise and tanned leather. This wine carries impressive depth and intensity, and is clearly the well-structured results of a thoughtful, bold approach to winemaking. Tannins are chewy and remarkably present, and the subtle, yet nuanced acidity balances the wine and allows the complexity of the varietals and vintages to burst with persistence. The spicey, woody undertones are well-integrated and enhance the experience mid-palate. The rich, velvety mouthfeel is full of texture leading to an elongated, sumptuous finish. It might be assumed that an offering this bold and this big would be aggressive, but the fact that it is not is where the magic of the craftsmanship takes over. Superb drinkability for a wine that is both multi-faceted and sleek. Pairs well with BBQ, chocolate ganache or lamb encrusted with pistachios, hazelnuts and pecans.