One of Roanoke Vineyards many blends is perfectly called Blend One. This could almost be Cabernet Sauvignon, but it has 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, It would have needed at least 85% to be bottled and labeled as Cabernet Sauvignon. What is that other 20%; Cabernet Franc.
On the nose there is alot of Cabernet Sauvignon elements; big juicy berries some of them dried and some of the baked kind. There is nice spice and leather and tobacco here to, but there is the hint of dried herbs and some cherry that adds nice depth to the wine, thanks to the Cabernet Franc.
The taste was of juicy blackberry jam. The fruit is concentrated and very mouth filling. The tannins are just right, and they are the food tannins that really make this wine sing.
On the finish I was picking up some chocolate and some earthiness which was really nice.
This was a solid wine and I was craving some grilled duck breasts with this glass I had at the tasting room, where it is available for $34.
Sláinte!