Bold and enticing, Conundrum Red Blend by Caymus Vineyards is a masterful fusion of Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from California's premier vineyards. With aromas of ripe berries, plums, and a hint of cocoa, this wine surprises the palate with lush flavors of cherries, chocolate-covered fruit, and a whisper of smokiness. Its velvety tannins provide a smooth texture, while its rich complexity makes it versatile enough to pair with everything from grilled steaks to spicy dishes. Serve it slightly chilled for a fresh take or savor its full-bodied warmth at room temperature. Whether for special occasions or everyday indulgence, Conundrum Red Blend offers an irresistibly layered and approachable wine experience.
Process & Profile
Crafted by the esteemed Conundrum Wines, a member of the Wagner Family of Wine, Conundrum Red Blend is a vibrant fusion of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Sourced from California's premier winegrowing regions, from Napa Valley to Santa Barbara, this blend celebrates diversity and innovation in winemaking. Its 2022 vintage exemplifies creativity, blending traditional winemaking techniques with bold experimentation. With an ABV of 14.9%, Conundrum Red offers a rich, fruit-forward character designed to intrigue wine enthusiasts and novices alike.
Tasting Notes
Conundrum Red opens with a luscious bouquet of ripe berries, plums, and a hint of cocoa, layered with a whisper of smoky BBQ. On the palate, it delights with flavors of lush cherries, semi-sweet baking chocolate, and undertones of dried dark fruit. Subtle accents of nutmeg and toasted oak add complexity, while its smooth tannins and velvety mouthfeel create a well-rounded and approachable finish. The long, lingering finish teases with layers of flavor, inviting you to take another sip.
What Makes It Special
This wine is more than just a blend—it's a pioneer of innovation in the red wine category. Descended from the rich legacy of the Wagner family, Conundrum Red embraces an unconventional approach by blending varietals in unexpected ways. This methodology produces a wine that is bold yet approachable, serious yet playful. Unlike many modern blends, it avoids overpowering sweetness, opting instead for layered complexity and balance. The twist-top bottle adds a practical, modern touch, ensuring optimal freshness and accessibility.
How to Enjoy
Conundrum Red is versatile and perfect for any occasion. The winemaker recommends serving it slightly chilled to enhance its fruit-forward profile, making it unexpectedly refreshing. It's ideal as a standalone sipper or paired with grilled meats, BBQ, and bold, full-flavored dishes like fajitas or Indian cuisine. Its robust flavors also complement savory pastas and rich chocolate desserts, making it suitable for both casual gatherings and elegant dinners.
Conclusion
Conundrum Red Blend combines California's winemaking heritage with inventive blending techniques to deliver a wine that is as mysterious as it is satisfying. Whether you’re an experienced aficionado or exploring red blends for the first time, this wine is guaranteed to captivate with its depth and charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key tasting notes of Conundrum Red Blend?
Conundrum Red Blend offers a rich and complex flavor profile with notes of cherries, chocolate, blackberries, and a hint of plums. It also carries subtle hints of baking spices, damp earth, and toasted oak, with a silky smooth finish.
What varietals are included in Conundrum Red Blend?
This wine is crafted from a blend of several red varietals, including Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Depending on the vintage, other grapes such as Merlot and Syrah may also be included, providing a unique complexity to its character.
How should I serve Conundrum Red Blend?
Conundrum Red Blend can be enjoyed at room temperature for a fuller flavor experience. Alternatively, it can be served slightly chilled to enhance its fruit-forward profile, making it refreshing and suitable for warm weather.
What food pairs well with Conundrum Red Blend?
This versatile wine pairs beautifully with grilled meats, savory pasta dishes, barbecue, and full-flavored cuisine such as fajitas, tacos, or Asian and Indian dishes. It is also delightful on its own as a smooth, approachable sipper.
What is the alcohol content of Conundrum Red Blend?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) of Conundrum Red Blend is typically around 14.9% for the 2022 vintage, though it may vary slightly with each year.
Where are the grapes for Conundrum Red Blend sourced?
The grapes for Conundrum Red Blend are sourced from premier winegrowing regions across California, ensuring a high-quality and flavorful wine.
Is Conundrum Red Blend suitable for chilling?
Yes, Conundrum Red Blend is unique in that it can be served slightly chilled, which brings out the refreshing fruit flavors and enhances its versatility, particularly during warmer months.
Who produces Conundrum Red Blend?
Conundrum Red Blend is produced by Conundrum Wines, which is part of the Wagner family of wines, known for their rich winemaking history and innovative blends.
What is the price range for Conundrum Red Blend?
The price for a 750 ml bottle of Conundrum Red Blend typically ranges from $19.99 to $22.99, depending on the retailer or location.
How would you describe the overall experience of drinking Conundrum Red Blend?
Conundrum Red Blend is often described as rich, fruit-forward, and approachable, with a velvety mouthfeel and well-rounded tannins. It has a luxurious complexity that appeals to both new and experienced wine drinkers, offering excellent value for its price.
