2018 Blackbird Illustration
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Mostly Merlot, the 2018 Illustration Proprietary Red offers up a pretty, medium to full-bodied, impressive, and balanced style as well as lots of ripe black cherry fruits supported by truffle and cedary herb nuances. It's another beautiful, elegant wine from this estate.
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Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2018 Illustration Proprietary Red is a blend of 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple colored, it offers up seductive scents of stewed plums, warm black cherries and mulberries with touches of spice cake, licorice and potpourri. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is plush and elegantly played with beautiful expression and a spicy kick to the finish. This is expected to be released this summer.
The 2018 Illustration is rich, sensual and so inviting. The Merlot-based Illustration is super-expressive right out of the gate. Inky dark fruit, chocolate, spice, licorice and new leather build in a succulent, racy wine that will drink beautifully right out of the gate. Dollops of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon round out the blend. Vineyard sources include Stagecoah, Hudson, Star and Crocker Starr.
The 2018 Illustration boasts off-the-charts richness, power and flavor intensity. Inky dark fruit, chocolate, licorice, spice and espresso are all amped up in this juicy, flavorful red. The purity of the fruit and wine's balance are simply remarkable.