Bogle 2010 Phantom Blend
This is the perfect example of a wine that I would have never pulled off of the shelf for myself, much less find at the store, but at the winery… “Sure, I would love to taste that!” comes flying out of my mouth.
This blend is Old Vine Zin with almost as much Petitie Sirah and a dash of Mourvedre to keep you guessing. I would have guessed that the The Zin, at 51%, would carry the nose with plum notes but I was totally wrong. Warm black cherry all over the place. Immediately peppery on the tongue with a “mystery sweet” on the front of the palate which I guessed was the American Oak. Nice finish and I really enjoyed the structure. The dance between the Zin and the PS was interesting.
I generally don’t take to Zins but this was very close to a K&S 5. I think the only reason I didn’t buy, despite the great price point, was I had already purchased my allotment for the day. If I go back, I hope they have some left.
Retail: $16.00
(K&S Rating: 4 of 6)
Winemaker’s Notes: “The wait is over…Phantom has reappeared for the season! Bogle’s desirable apparition of rich berry and relentless spice returns to haunt wine lovers. Three expressive varietals converge and create a mysterious wine full of flavor, concentration and intensity.
This ruby red spectre entices with rich blackberry and briary boysenberry. Provocative dark fruits envelop the nose and palate, leaving the essence of flavors brought forth by the grapes during winemaking. Black cherry and anise abound, leading to a sturdy finish of black pepper, pipe tobacco and spicy oak. Aged for over two years in 1 and 2 year old American oak focus and intensify the Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Mourvèdre, creating yet another passionate and commanding red wine, impossible to ignore.
Welcome the winery ghost into your home again with this latest vintage, and enjoy with full-flavored and hearty meals…before it vanishes again.”
