The Rabbit Ridge Allure de Robles 2013 is a Rhone inspired wine blend, available for $6.99 at Trader Joe’s, but it does not seem to be an exclusive wine, sourced from vineyards in Paso Robles inside the Central Coast AVA of California. Northern Rhone wines are Syrah based wines and Southern Rhone Reds are Syrah and/or Grenache, plus Mourvedre and a bunch of lessor known grapes. The Allure de Robles is a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre (a GSM) with smaller amount of 6 other grapes. Rabbit Ridge was founded in 1981 by Erich Russell and is now one of Bronco Wines properties. This blend is made with production techniques not out-of-place in the Rhone Valley and is aged in a combination of 160 gallon and 2950 gallon oak barrels. The alcohol content is a stout 14.8%.
The color is a crimson red with purple highlights. The nose is black and blue berries, light vanilla and a balanced hit of exotic spice. This is a medium to full-bodied wine, with bright fruit flavors and a healthy dose of spice. It starts with rich blackberry, licorice, a touch of creamy vanilla and plum. The mid-palate adds black cherry, black pepper and spice. The tannins are soft, the acidity is balanced. The finish is full, fades quickly, but never goes away.
The Rabbit Ridge Allure de Robles 2013 is a lot of wine for the money, a barrel aged, Paso Robles, tasty Red blend for under 7 bucks is a super value. The ripe, fresh fruit and the complex spice makes the Allure de Robles very, very drinkable. Pair this blend with stews, pot roast and comfort food.
Agree with your assessment. Very enjoyable wine for the money.