The Dearly Beloved I Thee Red 2023 is a $7.99 exclusive at Trader Joe’s. This wine has been produced since at least the 2009 vintage, with several different producers involved. It was a Central Coast AVA for most of its existence, but the last few vintages have been from the Lodi AVA.
The Story
Over the years, of grape blend has changed; the Lodi version has been Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Tannat, and Tempranillo. This wine was produced by some element of Precept Wine & Spirits, a large company located in the Northwest.
Lodi is situated in the northern part of the Central Valley; it is far enough inland that it should be too warm to grow grapes. But the vineyards are located in valleys in the delta formed by the San Pablo Bay. The valleys funnel morning fog and cooler breezes to the vineyards, allowing the region to be a prime location for warm-weather grapes.
Petite Sirah is a grape created in France in the late 1800s in response to the disease and pest infestations that plagued the vineyards of France. By the time the grape was fully developed, the devastation was over, and the Petite Sirah grapes were not needed. It somehow found its way to California and Australia. It is often found mixed with Zinfandel and is a part of blends.
Tannat is a French blending grape that is used to add structure and a deep, dark color. It is also the Red wine grape of Uruguay.
The back label mentions flavors of spicy vanilla oak and toasted vanilla bean, so this Red blend has had some sort of an oak program, be it barrel or other means.
The intricate Day of the Dead label has been with this wine since the early days and does provide a good look.
The alcohol content is 14.1%.
The Dearly Beloved I Thee Red 2023 Tasting Notes
The color is an opaque black cherry red; the Tannat did its job. The nose is extracted blueberry, licorice, toasty vanilla, and cinnamon. Dearly Beloved I Thee Red 2023 is smooth, with dark flavors.
This Red Blend tastes like blackberry, pomegranate, spice, vanilla, raspberry, and a hint of herbs. Followed by dusty tannins and tart cranberry.
The tannins are there in the mix but do not bite, while the acidity is well controlled.
The Summary
- The Dearly Beloved I Thee Red 2023 is a quality blend at a low price.
- Buy it for the Day of the Dead label.
- Drink it because it tastes good!
