Red wine | South Eastern Australia
Ah, the 19 Crimes Red Blend. This isn't just a wine; it's a story in a bottle, a journey back to a time of daring convicts and unforgiving laws. Imagine yourself transported to 18th-century Australia, a penal colony teeming with rebels and rogues who defied the British Empire. Each bottle of 19 Crimes commemorates those individuals who, upon conviction of at least one of the 19 crimes, were banished to the land down under. These weren't hardened criminals in the modern sense; they were often everyday people caught in extraordinary circumstances, rebels against a system they deemed unjust.
Now, what about the wine itself? The 19 Crimes Red Blend is a masterful concoction, primarily comprised of a blend of Shiraz, Grenache, and Mataro (also known as Mourvèdre). This trifecta creates a symphony of flavors that dance upon your palate. The Shiraz lends a backbone of bold fruitiness, with notes of ripe blackberry and plum dominating the initial taste. Grenache adds a touch of warmth and spice, introducing hints of cinnamon and white pepper, while Mataro provides earthy undertones and a structural complexity that elevates the blend to new heights.
On the nose, the 19 Crimes Red Blend is an aromatic adventure. Imagine inhaling the scent of dark cherries mingled with vanilla and a subtle hint of chocolate. The oak aging contributes a delicate toastiness, further enriching the olfactory experience. As you swirl the wine in your glass, you might catch a whiff of cedar or even a faint whisper of smoky tobacco, adding layers of intrigue.
The wine's structure is equally impressive. The tannins are soft and approachable, making it a pleasure to drink even on its own. Yet, they provide enough grip to balance the wine's inherent fruitiness and prevent it from becoming cloying. The acidity is well-integrated, keeping the wine lively and refreshing. The finish is long and lingering, leaving you with a pleasant aftertaste that invites you to take another sip.
But what truly sets this wine apart is its versatility. The 19 Crimes Red Blend is a food-pairing champion, capable of complementing a wide range of dishes. Its bold fruitiness and subtle spiciness make it an ideal accompaniment to grilled meats, particularly steak or lamb. It also pairs beautifully with hearty stews and casseroles, adding depth and complexity to the meal. For those who prefer vegetarian options, the 19 Crimes Red Blend is a delightful match for roasted vegetables, especially those with earthy undertones, such as beets or mushrooms.
Imagine yourself serving this wine at a barbecue, alongside grilled burgers or sausages. The wine's fruit-forward profile will cut through the richness of the meat, while its subtle spiciness will complement the smoky flavors of the grill. Or picture yourself enjoying it with a cozy winter stew, as the wine's warmth and complexity wrap you in a comforting embrace. No matter the occasion, the 19 Crimes Red Blend is sure to impress.
Beyond its exceptional taste and versatility, the 19 Crimes Red Blend is also a conversation starter. Its captivating label and the intriguing stories it tells make it a wine that people will remember. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the 19 Crimes Red Blend is a wine worth exploring. So, uncork a bottle, raise a glass, and toast to the rebels and rogues who defied convention and helped shape the land down under.