Rhys Vineyards 2017 Centennial Mountain Vineyard Red Blend: A Masterpiece of California Craftsmanship

Indulge in the exceptional 2017 Centennial Mountain Vineyard Red Blend from Rhys Vineyards, a harmonious fusion of California’s finest varietals. This wine is a testament to the art of blending, featuring 50% Nebbiolo, 15% Nerello Mascalese, 15% Nerello Capuccio (Carignane), 15% Primitivo, and 5% Barbera, all sourced from the esteemed Centennial Mountain Vineyard.

With a 91-94 point rating from Wine Advocate, this red blend captivates with its classic Nebbiolo bouquet, offering notes of balsamic cherry, dried herbs, rose petal, and licorice. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and succulent, boasting a sappy core of fruit and fine-grained tannins that promise a long, elegant finish.

Vinous awards it 93 points, praising its rich display of crushed black raspberries, plums, and licorice, complemented by hints of mint and camphor. The wine’s silky textures and polished blackberry and currant flavors are lifted by cooling herbal notes, creating a perfect balance of flavor and structure.

Jeb Dunnuck gives it 92 points, highlighting its reserved yet layered bouquet of ripe blackberry and raspberry, interwoven with brambly herbs, spice, chocolate, and loamy earth. This wine is beautiful on the palate, with medium to full-bodied richness, great acidity, and a balanced, delicious profile that’s both intense and elegant.

John Gilman also awards 92 points, noting its deep, transparent nose with scents of cherries, leather, rose petals, and soil tones. The palate is deep, full-bodied, and ripe, with firm, well-integrated tannins and very good length.

At 14.5% alcohol, this wine carries its strength gracefully and is built for the cellar. Whether enjoyed now or aged, the 2017 Centennial Mountain Vineyard Red Blend is a must-have for any wine enthusiast seeking complexity, balance, and elegance.