# Substance VC Klein BX Blend (2016)

- **Producer:** House of Smith
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
- **Region:** Washington, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, black plum, black cherry, vanilla, cedar

## About this wine

The Substance VC Klein BX Blend 2016 is a red wine from the Columbia Valley, Washington, USA, specifically from the Walla Walla Valley appellation. It is a Bordeaux-style blend composed of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is produced by House of Smith, an independent winery founded by Charles Smith, known for its critical acclaim and high-scoring wines. The 2016 vintage benefited from favorable conditions influenced by an El Niño year. The wine was previously labeled as 'Super Substance'.

## Interesting facts

- Formerly known as 'Super Substance'.
- Part of a portfolio from a winemaker who started selling from his van.
- Washington State's largest independent winemaker-owned winery.

## Food pairing

The full body and structured nature of this blend, with its prominent tannins, make it an excellent partner for rich, protein-heavy dishes. The tannins bind with the proteins in the meat, softening the wine and making the food taste richer. Dishes with savory, earthy, or umami notes will complement the wine's complexity.

## Wine making process

The Substance VC Klein BX Blend is crafted using a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The winemaking process involves careful fermentation to extract optimal color and tannins, contributing to the wine's full body and structured profile. Following fermentation, the wine is typically aged, likely in oak barrels, to develop complexity and soften its texture. The specific blend ratios are 41% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Franc, and 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, chosen to create a balanced and cohesive final wine.