Wow, the aromas on this wine are impressive – herbal, baking spices, cinnamon and clove – it’s lush and round and finishes long. The wine is ruby red in the glass and red-fruited on the palate, typical characteristics of the Carménère variety. The “Black Label” is comprised of 100% Carménère, with 20% of the grapes coming from five different vineyards. Who knew there was so much Carménère in the Columbia Valley?
Winemaker Bart Fawbush has doubled down on oak treatment using 100 percent new American oak, which adds a distinct spiciness to the finished product. The cuvee of Carménère is aged for 20 months in American barrels fabricated in Chile. Who knows Carménère oak treatment better than the Chileans?
The Bartholomew Wine brand is also defined by its commitment to producing Carménère. Our Commitment tonight was to pair this with a Mexican tortilla soup. The wine stood up to the spice and savoriness beautifully.
Read Bart’s Wine Characters interview here for more information.