Some Like it Red Meritage (2001)

About this wine

This Meritage blend from Sonoma County combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, resulting in a wine with rich dark fruit flavors like blackberry and plum. The palate is complemented by subtle notes of cocoa and spice, adding depth to the tasting experience. The tannins are well-integrated, providing a smooth and balanced finish. As a 2001 vintage, this wine has had time to develop complexity, offering a harmonious blend of fruit and earthy undertones. The term 'Meritage' signifies a Bordeaux-style blend, highlighting the winemaker's dedication to crafting a wine that honors traditional blending techniques.

About the grape

The 2001 Red Car Some Like it Red Meritage from Sonoma County is crafted using the five classic Bordeaux grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its thick skins and hardy vines, contributes structure and aging potential to the blend. Merlot, with its softer tannins and fruit-forward profile, adds approachability and roundness. Cabernet Franc, a parent grape to both Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, imparts aromatic complexity and subtle spice notes. Malbec, originally from France but now widely associated with Argentina, brings deep color and plum-like flavors. Petit Verdot, often used sparingly due to its intense tannins and deep color, adds depth and floral notes to the wine. In Sonoma County's diverse microclimates, these varietals thrive, allowing winemakers to create balanced and expressive Meritage blends.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The term 'Meritage' is a blend of 'merit' and 'heritage,' created in 1988 to describe American wines made in the Bordeaux style without infringing on the Bordeaux region's protected designation.
• 🍇 Red Car's 'Some Like it Red' 2001 Meritage is a proprietary red blend from Sonoma County, combining Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot.
• 🌄 Sonoma County, where this wine originates, is one of California's largest wine-producing regions, known for its diverse microclimates and soil types that contribute to the complexity of its wines.
• 🏅 The 2001 vintage of 'Some Like it Red' was produced during Red Car's early years, reflecting their commitment to crafting distinctive, high-quality blends.
• 🚋 Red Car's name pays homage to the historic electric trolley cars of Los Angeles, symbolizing a journey and connection to California's rich history.

Palate profile

Producer

Red Car Wine was founded in 2000 by Richard Crowell, Mark Estrin, and Carroll Kemp, beginning with a modest production of 50 cases of Syrah in a Culver City garage. In 2003, they acquired 128 acres in Cazadero, California, perched 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean, to establish their estate vineyard. The winery is renowned for its cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah, emphasizing sustainable farming and minimal-intervention winemaking to highlight the unique terroir of the West Sonoma Coast. The name 'Red Car' pays homage to the historic Los Angeles Pacific Electric Trolley system, reflecting the founders' original connection to the city.