Review: NV Dark Horse Double Down Red Blend
A ten-dollar, nonvintage red wine made from who-knows-what that’s called Double Down… Perhaps you can forgive my skepticism going into this one. Truth be told, Dark Horse’s lighter wines are not as terrible as their name, and this expression — technically a “limited release” — is far better than I was expecting.
According to the producer, this is a blend of “Tannat, Teroldego, Zinfindel [sic], and Petite Syrah [sic],” all of which is sourced from California. And try as I might to hate it based on poor copy editing alone, I simply can’t. It’s just a blend that works: Lightly sweet and certainly doctored, but done so by someone that knows what they’re doing. The palate is heavily spicy with nutmeg and cinnamon, with a raisiny note emerging in short order, eventually giving way to a slightly syrupy chocolate finish. It’s not cloying, but it certainly sticks to your ribs.
As a “big” red wine, Double Down is aptly named and built for either a bold meal or getting totally lit. I’m not going to judge you either way.
B / $10 / darkhorsewine.com
NV Dark Horse Double Down Red Blend
$10
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Dear Chris, I was skeptical at first but was pleasantly surprised by Dark Horse Double Down. Very good for an every day wine. I’m a fan of red blends especially The Prisoner but the Double Down is very good and bold. You are correct, this blend definitely works! I enjoy it with a steak, lamb chop or ribs… Job well done!