Product
2006 Merkin Vineyards Chupacabra (California - Livermore, United States)
Wine - Red $31.99 (750mL)
Very dark and intense, the glass slightly tipped revealed some auburn edges but just gradients straight to deep purple/almost black.
The self-proclaimed "shape-shifter," the Merkin Vineyards Chupacabra sports a neat-o nose with very intense and focused dark fruits. In its ever changing shape very much in the upfront fruity style. Hints of clove and garlic linger aromatically.
The blend is a secret but an educated guess would be Grenache based with some Mataro perhaps (the earthy element). Deliciously balanced, nice level of acidity and the tannins aren't totally overwhelming. To us it came across as a hopped up Rhone blend, in a good way.
We're leaning towards a blend containing at least some of the following: Grenache, CabSau, Syrah, Merlot, Mouvedre, Sangiovese.