2020 Herman Story Casual Encounters
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Tasting notes
More Mourvèdre-dominated, the 2020 Casual Encounters is a blend of 58% Mourvèdre, 34% Syrah, and 8% Grenache. Blackberries, smoked meats, licorice, and candlewax are just some of the notions here, and it's a full-bodied, mouth-filling, opulent red offering ripe tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish. This is a classic Russell From style of red that will keep for 7-8 years. I always love these wines from Russell From, and they’re consistently made in a ripe, pedal-to-the-metal style that stays balanced and light on its feet. These pleasure-bent, sexy wines are always fun to drink.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Eric Guido, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2020 Casual Encounters is pure seduction in the glass, with a captivating blend of crushed blackberries and plums accentuated by cinnamon, clove and mocha notes. This impresses further with a balance of velvety textures and ultra-ripe red and black fruits energized by juicy acidity. A flourish of cocoa and balsamic spice lingers impossibly long as the 2020 finishes hauntingly dark and gently tannic. This is a pleasure bomb and not for the faint of heart. Casual Encounters is a blend of 58% Mourvèdre, 34% Syrah and 8% Grenache.