Ash Tells All:
About Apothic's Original Red Blend
Apothic Red is a blend that will always have a piece of my heart. I was introduced to Apothic by my grandparents, and Apothic Red was one of the first wines I ever enjoyed with my family.
When I joined the Apothic team, I was eager to learn more about how our Original Blend was brought to life. Red blends were popular back in the '60s and '70s and were re-emerging in the late 2000s. My winemaking predecessor, Deb Juergenson and her team had the vision to create a wine that a wine lover or newcomer could enjoy every day and on any occasion. Their work to create this wine was a labor of love, where they trialed many different combinations of varietals and oaks until they found the right flavors. They paid close attention to varietals that brought high fruit notes of jammy dark fruits, like cherry and blackberry, while also ensuring the mouthfeel was smooth and approachable.
After many days of blending, they found the perfect blend of varietals: Zinfandel, Syrah and Merlot. Zinfandel brought bold flavors of dark fruit and spice, which were complemented by the soft mouthfeel and black fruit notes from Merlot, and the Syrah layers in soft blueberry notes. Once the blend was finalized, different oak influences were explored, and they found that soft vanilla and mocha tones really enhanced the blend. It was important that they found the right balance of fruit and oak. The first release of our Red Original Blend was in 2009, and we have been crafting it ever since!
It was an honor to learn how to create the Original Blend from Deb Juergenson, and I look forward to watching how the blend comes to life after every harvest. I have enjoyed Apothic Red on many occasions, and it is easy to pair with just about any dish. My favorite pairings are lasagna and tri-tip sandwiches. I am excited to serve it at my wedding this upcoming summer! It brings me so much joy to hear from our Insiders about the occasions when they’ve enjoyed Apothic Red. I would love to know your favorite occasions!
2022 Red
Original Blend
90 Points, The Tasting Panel Magazine, 12/24
This rich blend boasts notes of dark berries, hints of mocha, and a touch of spice. Perfect for gathering with a group of friends at home.
Pairs perfectly with a variety of foods like tomato-based pasta dishes or aged cheeses.
