Varietal: 80% Cabernet, 12% Merlot & 8% Syrah

Vintage: 2017 Alcohol: 13.5% TA: 5.5 g/L pH: 3.70

Oak Regimen: French and American oak (32% new and 68% neutral barrels)

Winemaker Notes: Grapes were harvested over a one and a half month period starting in mid-September. The lots were all fermented separately and blended at about the 6 month point. 32% saw a mix of new French and American oak. The wine was finally finished up and bottled October 2017.

Tasting Notes: Aromas of blackberry jam, cedar & a hit of cardamom. Flavors of plum, black cherry Jolly Ranchers and other dark fruits. Tannins start gracefully and become dusty and pronounced towards the finish. Lush, sweet fruits in the midpalate carry well into the finish thanks to a thread of acidity.

Food Match: Classic steak wine with the depth of flavors to bring out the best in a ribeye while cutting through the fat. Also try pairing with polish sausages or a hearty pasta dish slathered in a tomato-based sauce.

Award winning winemaker Adam LaZarre started Cycles Gladiator in 2005. LaZarre’s philosophy: “I love producing really great wines that taste two to three times the price & knowing that every night someone is enjoying my wine.”