The Hess Collection Small Block Series Mixed Reds

Tasting notes & discussion 71

Typically $50 - $60/bottle from The Hess Collection Winery
Vintage 2016 Syrah from Napa Valley, 2017 Merlot from Napa Valley, 2017 Zinfandel from Rockpile (Sonoma County)
Available for AZ; CA; CO; CT; DC; FL; GA; IA; ID; IL; KS; LA; MA; MD; ME; MI; MN; MO; MT; NC; ND; NE; NH; NM; NV; NY; OK; OR; PA; SC; SD; TN; TX; VA; VT; WA; WI; WV; WY
Sold by The Hess Collection Winery, fulfilled by Wine Country Connect

About The Hess Collection Winery
“As fifth generation Hess family, Tim and Sabrina consider themselves stewards of the brand and the land. When Donald Hess came to California in the 1970s, he was attracted to California wine and became fascinated with Mount Veeder. Although few in Napa Valley were cultivating vines at elevation, Donald Hess believed the volcanic slopes of Mount Veeder provided the ideal combination of soils and microclimates to yield elegant wines with rich, complex flavors.”

The Best of the Hess

TASTING NOTES (from the Winemakers):
Syrah - “The wine is deeply concentrated in color, with aromas of blueberry, boysenberry and a touch of mocha lifting from the glass. The aromas are welcoming, filling the senses and inviting the first sip that is marked by black fruit flavors and delicious mouthfilling tannins. The notes of cassis and black plum intertwine with brown spice and toasted oak, and are supported by a firm acidity that persists through the lengthy finish.” (AbV 15.4%, pH 3.77, TA 0.67 g/100mL)

Merlot - “Our Small Block Series Merlot is a beautiful expression of what this varietal has to offer. Inviting aromas of red cur ant, black cherry and cocoa lead to a supple wine on the palate. This Merlot is driven by black plum and cassis, which marry with touches of cinnamon spice and toasted oak. Well-managed, mouth-filling tannins appear in such a way that does not overpower the wine as it lingers on a long, pleasant finish.” (AbV 14.8%, pH 3.48, TA 0.57 g/100mL)

Zinfandel - "On the nose, the wine presents a beautiful bouquet of cassis, boysenberry and black cherry, which transitions seamlessly into the full bodied and elegant wine. In the glass, it possesses distinct varietal character, driven by juicy black currant and tight tannins supported by a perfectly balanced acidity and delicious notes of toasty oak throughout.” (AbV 14.9%, pH 3.43, TA 0.67 g/100mL)

BARRELS:
Syrah - 20 months in French oak, 10% new.

Merlot - 22 months in French oak, 20% new.

Zinfandel - 15 months in French oak.

PAIRS WITH (according to the Executive Chef):
Syrah - Coffee and herb crusted lamb chops, duck confit, chicken mole, wild mushrooms, dried figs and dates with blue cheese and balsamic syrup.

Merlot - Roasted duck, quail or pork loin alongside a dark berry compote, creamy au gratin potatoes or roasted leeks with spring onion and green garlic.

Zinfandel - Osso Bucco, roasted venison, filling cassoulets and richly sauced pastas.

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Which of these sounds like the best of the Hess based on the notes?

2016 Small Block Series Napa Valley Syrah

2016 Small Block Series Napa Valley Syrah
2017 Small Block Series Napa Valley Merlot

2017 Small Block Series Napa Valley Merlot
2017 Small Block Series Rockpile Zinfandel

2017 Small Block Series Rockpile Zinfandel

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