This rich, new bourbon barrel aged California red from Chateau Diana delivers with a sweet whiskey accent and a touch of wood in their premium red blend. Although it does make a fun accompaniment to a grilled steak on a sunny weekend, it really excels as a festive conversation starter at a party or family get-together.
Sparkplug begins as an eclectic blend of 71% California Malbec, 11% Petit Verdot, 10% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Zinfandel. As it reaches maturity, it is aged for 45 days in Tennessee bourbon barrels.
The resulting wine is big and engaging. It sports deep black fruit aromas with undertones of cigar box, cedar wood, and anise. The wine’s lush flavors extract complimenting hints of bourbon that intertwine with its elements of blackberries, plums and cassis. The bourbon notes lift the boldness level up a notch, depositing hints of char, smoke, and a caramel chewiness.
With the popularity of bourbon barrel aged wines trending, this limited run, small batch red is a refreshingly smooth and novel addition to one’s collection.
In terms of food pairings, Sparkplug’s would be like those of an Old Vine Zinfandel. This wine would team well with fare such as barbeque chicken, baby back ribs, pulled pork, or flat bread pizza.
Look for Sparkplug Bourbon Barrel Aged Red Blend at local wine stores like Wyatt’s, who offers you a huge selection of both new releases and old favorites.