2014 14 Hands Kentucky Derby Columbia Valley Red Blend

Happy Taco Tuesday!  Bet you'll never guess what's for dinner...but as for the wine, tonight I've opened a bottle of 2014 14 Hands Kentucky Derby Red Blend which I picked up at my local market a few months ago, well after the Derby which is why it was likely on sale.  In any case, 14 Hands does make some nice, inexpensive and easy drinking wines, and this one is a blend of Merlot (50%), Cabernet Franc (48%) and Barbera (2%) all from the Columbia Valley of Washington.  So let's see how this one tastes!

The wine is a nice ruby color in the glass, very characteristic of Merlot and Cabernet Franc.  The nose is a pleasant combination of ripe red berries, plum and a bit of peppery spice.  The taste is a wave of cherry, currant and plum up front that transitions smoothly to some notes of white pepper spice and just the faintest hint of mint midpalate.  The tannins are still a bit tight, adding some sharpness to the long, smooth and very dry finish.

Overall, I would rate this win a solid 8, as it's really just a pleasant drinking everyday red blend that I'm sure was well under $20.  This wine would pair well with a variety of hearty dishes, from steaks and chops to pizza, but tonight I'm enjoying this wine with some chicken tacos and a side of black beans for Taco Tuesday!  Cheers!