Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Wine of the Week: The Santa Ynez Valley 2006 Jarhead Red Reserve

Among wine drinkers, many have some reservation of a wine label that is custom made. Perhaps, there comes a stereotype with a title that doesn’t represent the type of wine or the vineyard. Often times, a bottle with colorful art and a catchy name phrase slapped on an X-brand wine isn’t what it appears. Yes, it may catch the eye, but inside is less than a quality product.

Jarhead Red Reserve is not one of these wines. I was pleasantly surprised to find out, that former Marine Captain and Firestone winegrower, Adam Firestone was behind the mastery of this vintage.

Started in 1999 and grown in the valleys of Santa Ynez, the Jarhead red was created. This vintage is loaded with the finest Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes then aged in French oak for approximately 8 to 14 months to give it that full bodied flavor. While my tasting notes are vague, there is a definite taste of ripe plum, spicy pepper accompanied with chocolate truffles. This is by far a great steak and barbecue wine.

With the celebratory holiday of 4th of July just around the corner, stock up with this handsome bottle and give it to a friend or relative who has served in the Marine Corp. as a gift. All net proceeds will benefit the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. This fund aids special educational attention to children of fallen Marines.
Price: $22-$25

This special limited vintage can be found at your local wine tasting shop.

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