Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Old Soul 2013 Pure Red Blend, California


I am just now becoming acquainted with Old Soul wines, produced in Lodi. They offer full-on flavor at an every day price. Case in point: the Old Soul 2013 Pure Red blend.
The appellation for this wine is California, meaning that the grapes come from a variety of regions, not just Lodi. The blend for this wine is Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah. I’d be very surprised if the Zin wasn’t from Lodi, which is known for world-class Zinfandel.
The Pure Red was opened on an evening when the Green Dragon was calling for a casual wine for some after dinner sipping. I popped the cork on this blend, not knowing quite what to expect.
The Old Soul was full of fresh, vibrant flavors and a silky smooth body. Part of the wine was aged for a year in French and American oak while another portion was fermented in stainless steel. That’s a bit unusual, but it works.
I’d guess that the Cab was oak aged and perhaps the Zin and Petite Sirah went the stainless steel route. Whatever winemaking machinations took  place, the result is a wine that has richly concentrated flavors of raspberry and blackberry. It has structure, but doesn’t require aging or decanting to enjoy. There is a long, tongue-coating finish.
At a SRP of $14, the price of a case or two isn’t sky high. This is a solid wine that would be a great crowd pleaser at a party. It would pair well with pizza, steak or barbeque.
Rating: 3 of 5  Value: 4 of 5
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Full disclosure: We received this wine as a marketing sample.

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