
Hess Collection Lion Tamer 750ml
Product Description
Lion Tamer Red Blend explores the relationship between some of the beloved and unusual varietals of Napa Valley. Malbec leads the blend, allowing for rich layers of fruit to be balanced by mouthwatering tannins. Flavors of cassis and boysenberry, subtle notes of milk chocolate, and a lingering finish.
Blend: 61% Malbec, 14% Zinfandel, 15% Petite Sirah, 9% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot
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Expert Reviews
A blend of 47% Malbec, 24% Zinfandel, 19% Petite Sirah, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Carignan, the 2019 Red Blend Lion Tamer sports a healthy ruby hue to go with juicy, fruit-forward notes of blueberries, strawberries, violets, and spice. Ready to go, medium to full-bodied, silky, and pure, it almost reminds me of a great Côtes du Rhône, strangely enough. It's not something to age, but the balance is spot on, it has terrific purity, and it’s just a delicious, high-quality red to drink over the coming couple of years.
This year's blend is 47% Malbec, 24% Zinfandel, 19% Petit Syrah, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% each Petit Verdot and Carignan, making the 2019 Lion Tamer Red Blend one of Napa's more eclectic efforts. It offers bold cherry-berry fruit in a full-bodied, supple format. It doesn't have much structure, so enjoy it over the next several years, while the soft tannins on the finish still give it some support.