Wine of the Week: 14 Hands 2014 Stampede Red Blend

Ever flip-flopping temperatures have confused my plants, my wardrobe, and my palate. I’ve been vacillating between crisp summery whites and sundresses and hooded sweatshirts and hearty reds. I really don’t mind an excuse to taste a delicious red wine, especially when it’s a beautiful cool evening that’s warm enough for grilling.

I received this 14 Hands 2014 Stampede Red Blend as a sample. A blend that consists of Syrah, Merlot, Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Mourvèdre, this wine was all berries with a touch of tobacco, baking spices, and dried leaves. Super velvety, juicy, and bursting with round cherry flavor, it was nice and dry and left a long finish, thanks to the earthier notes.

We paired it with grilled Portobello mushrooms and London Broil over salad, the meat and mushrooms pairing perfectly with the wine. Cozied up in sweaters but enjoying the lush green of our back yard, we savored a bit of both seasons as we patiently wait for summer’s arrival.