“Complex. Toasty.” Exitus tells us what to expect right on the label of this bourbon barrel-aged monster, which spends 3 months in bourbon barrels. It’s a California-sourced mix of Zinfandel, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, and Merlot, which makes for a true mutt of a blend. But… can it stand up to a bourbon cask? Let’s find out.

At 15.9% alcohol, the wine almost drinks like a Port. Extremely sweet, it’s loaded to the gills with notes of raisin, blackcurrant, and prune, with a dense meatiness underneath it. These two flavors don’t work well together: It feels like the sweet currant notes are trying to cover up the intense savory character, but ultimately that roast beef element comes to dominate the experience, with a finish that’s so meaty you might as well pour gravy on it.

C / $18

2016 Exitus Red Wine Aged in Bourbon Barrels

$18

5

Rating

5.0/10

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