October 2017 Domestic Wine: 2014 Rabble Wine Company’s-Force of Nature Red Blend, Paso Robles, California
Fine Wine Source Wine
October 2017
Rabble Wine Company/Force of Nature:
This Central Coast winery showcases the best fruit from Paso Robles and the Santa Maria Valley. Their wine style exemplifies bright acidity, all while showcasing true varietal characteristics. Balance is the theme throughout, keeping alcohol levels below 15% and finely-tuning tannins to deliver a lush, full bodied wine with balanced acidity. The Force of Nature label was launched in 2011 and Rabble Wine Company was founded by Rob Murray, a long-time Central Coast vineyard owner and grape grower. As of February 2016 wines produced as Force of Nature will now be labeled as Rabble Wine Co., taking effect with the 2015 vintage; subsequently, this bottle will be the last labeling as Force of Nature Red Blend. “Apparently, trademarks are important in this industry,” Andrew Nelson, partner and vice president of sales and marketing sarcastically stated. “First to market is not enough. Changing from Force of Nature to Rabble will ensure we’re able to continue our explosive growth. Winemaking and grape growing has always been our focus.” The labels all incorporate beautiful public domain art rooted in history: woodblock prints from the 1500’s, illustrations by John James Audubon, and etchings from William Blake and John Boydell. Our labels, like our wines, are known to engage, evoke emotion, and spark conversation.
About:
Rob Murray believes “We cannot command Nature except by obeying her.” Sourced from the volatile Mossfire Ranch Vineyard that sits on steep hillsides in a rolling valley floor, the vines see all that Nature has to offer: sun, snow, stream, and sea. With 40 degree diurnal shifts, snow dustings, summer sun, and bitter winds, the extremity of the climate creates fruit of extraordinary concentration and uniform ripeness.
Varietals:
67% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Syrah, & 11% Petite Sirah
Alcohol:
14%
Tasting Notes:
Brooding purple with dark rimmed color, first blooms with red cherry, rustic rhubarb to dark raspberry with hints forest floor and ends with a dusty suede nose. The palate is explosive, lush ripe fruits give way to supple tannin, layers of dark and bright berries with balanced acidity and firm yet restrained structure. The strong finish lingers of black tea and plum.
Food Pairings:
This fruit forward wine exhibits soft tannins making it an ideal everyday drinker perfect for any occasion…pizza night, spaghetti and meatballs, and especially with a good old fashioned cheeseburger.
Jim Lutfy’s Thoughts:
An incredible red blend with flavors of blueberries dried cherries and ripe raspberries that intermingle with oak and hickory to make a wonderful red blend; best served with barbequed meat, chicken, or spicy Mexican or Mediterranean foods.