# Special Reserve Red Blend (2023)

- **Producer:** Lion's Ridge
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €15
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, blackcurrant, plum, cherry, black pepper, vanilla, cedar, toast, charred wood

## About this wine

Lion's Ridge Special Reserve is an exclusive private-label wine developed in partnership with the Navigator Wine Collection and custom-crafted by Clos LaChance Wines. Clos LaChance is a highly regarded family-owned estate located in the Santa Clara Valley, within California's expansive Central Coast region. Known for its commitment to environmental stewardship, the winery produces expressive, fruit-forward wines that capture the diverse microclimates and maritime influences of the Central Coast AVA.

## Interesting facts

- Crafted by Clos LaChance, a certified sustainable winery nestled in the beautiful Santa Clara Valley.
- A private label collaboration designed to offer premium Central Coast quality at an accessible price point.
- The Central Coast AVA spans over 250 miles, offering a diverse range of microclimates that excel at red blends.

## Food pairing

This medium-to-full-bodied red blend pairs beautifully with rich, savory proteins and charred flavors. The wine's moderate tannins cut through the fat of grilled meats, while its ripe fruit profile complements sweet and smoky BBQ sauces or rich reductions.

## Wine making process

The grapes for this Central Coast Red Blend are harvested at optimal ripeness from select vineyard sites. Each variety undergoes separate fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve its distinct primary fruit characteristics. Following fermentation, the components are carefully blended and aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels to integrate the tannins, add structural complexity, and introduce subtle sweet spice notes before bottling.