Blackbird Vineyards Arise Napa Valley Proprietary Red 2013

Professional Ratings

• 91 Wine Enthusiast
  This is a Merlot-dominant blend, with 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc blended in. It offers cooler-climate elements of dried herb, cedar and currant, with the tannins sleek and polished. The finish flirts with a taste of coconut. Drink now through 2021
• 91 Connoisseurs' Guide
  55% Merlot; 30% Cabernet Sauvignon; 15% Cabernet Franc. It is no knock against this wine that its central character is a bit oriented to the ripe plum side of things and that its structure is that much more blunt in feel than its mate above. This wine will also age well, and, in the near term, the differences between the two are less today than they seem likely to become over time. Give this one four to six years.
• 91 James Suckling
  So much dried flower, walnut and plum aromas with mineral undertones. Full body, silky tannins and a flavorful finish. A sweet tobacco and light powder chocolate undertone.
• 90 Wine Spectator
  Well-structured but tightly wound, with aromas of red currant and bittersweet chocolate and flavors of cherry, olive and black tea. Finishes with firm tannins. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2018 through 2022. 6,000 cases made.