2022 Uncle D's Red Blend

Rich, Smooth, and Approachable

Wine Details

Vintage: 2022

Blend: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 15% Syrah, 10% Petite Sirah

Alcohol: 14.8%

pH: 3.75

TA: 5.6 g/L

Residual Sugar: 1.2 g/L (Dry)

Production: 820 cases

Bottle Price: $34

Winemaking

Harvest Date: September 20-30, 2022

Barrel Aging: 16 months

Oak: 35% new French & American oak, 65% neutral

Toast Level: Medium+

Fermentation: Separately fermented, blended before aging

Bottling Date: January 15, 2024

Tasting Notes

Appearance Deep, opaque purple-black with garnet highlights. Full-bodied with thick, syrupy legs indicating concentrated fruit and richness.

Nose Bold aromatics of blackberry jam, black cherry, and ripe plum. Rich notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and vanilla from oak aging. Layers of black pepper, smoked meat, and sweet baking spices with hints of tobacco and cedar.

Palate Opulent and lush with velvety tannins. Concentrated flavors of blackberry, cassis, and dark plum dominate. Mid-palate reveals dark chocolate, mocha, toasted oak, and warm spices. The warm vintage produces a wine of generous fruit and smooth texture with excellent depth.

Finish Long and luxurious with persistent dark fruit and oak spice. The wine's richness is balanced by smooth tannins and integrated acidity. This vintage showcases the power and concentration possible in warm years while maintaining drinkability.

Food Pairing

This versatile red blend pairs beautifully with:

Grilled & BBQ Grilled steak, BBQ ribs, burgers, lamb chops, or smoked brisket

Italian Favorites Pasta Bolognese, lasagna, osso buco, or margherita pizza

Comfort Food Pot roast, meatloaf, shepherd's pie, or aged cheddar

Vintage Notes

2022 was a warm, early vintage that produced intensely concentrated fruit across all varietals. The higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon in this vintage's blend provides additional structure and dark fruit intensity. Early harvest captured peak ripeness while preserving balance. The warm conditions resulted in a riper, more powerful expression of Uncle D's Red Blend with exceptional richness and depth.

Drinking Window

Peak: 2025-2029
Drinking wonderfully now with its bold fruit and smooth texture.

Purchase This Wine

Available for purchase directly from Hillside Estate Winery

Visit Winery Website →