The 2010 BV Coastal Estates Red Blend is produced from Zinfandel grown in the Lodi AVA, Barbera and Merlot from adjacent vineyards in the Paso Robles AVA and the Petite Sirah from the Lake County AVA. BV stands for Beaulieu Vineyards which was founded in the Rutherford AVA of Napa Valley in 1900, though BV is currently owned by Diageo Wines, who also own Chalone, Sterling and Rosenblum, among others. BV says they used both French and American oak during aging, but didn’t mention barrels. The alcohol content is 13.5%. This Red Blend lists for $11.99, but I found it at a local supermarket selling for $6.99 on sale.
The color is strawberry red with an almost clear halo. The nose is jammy red berries, a little vanilla, a touch of menthol and the faint scent of baking brownies. This Blend has a large velvety mouthfeel, with soft, smooth flavors. It starts with blackberry, blueberry, black Twizzlers and a little tart cherry. The mid palate is muted, but does show a bit of creamy vanilla and a tug from the oak spice. The tannins are hidden, but the acidity is fairly well balanced. The finish is subdued, but does linger.
The BV Coastal Estates Red Blend is the very definition of a soft and smooth, easy drinking Red wine. It has a little spice and some tart flavors to keep things interesting, but this is more of a tuesday night out on the deck or balcony wine, than a wine you would choose to pair with a meal. It would go with the usual burgers or pizza, but BV Coastal Red Blend is more of a sit back and talk with friends and neighbors kind of wine.
