Black Sheep Finds Genuine Risk red blend 2016
Region: Central Coast, California
Variety: Red Wine
Rating: 92.0

Each vintage the blend of Genuine Risk changes with the quality of the grapes in the field and conditions of the growing season. 2016 was an ideal vintage for Bordeaux varieties in the Central Coast: an early bud break, no frost damage during set and a moderately warm summer with limited days of excessive heat. Crop levels were normal after a very small 2015 vintage and harvest began in mid-September. The 2016 blend is comprised of 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Syrah. The introduction of Syrah into the blend has added round dark fruit and helps soften the wine and make it approachable immediately. The Cabernet Franc comes from a single vineyard in the San Benito AVA in Monterey County. The Syrah comes from the cool Sta. Rita Hills AVA in Santa Barbara County. While this is not a typical "Bordeaux" blend these two varieties complement each other quite well.