2019 Blackbird Illustration
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Tasting notes
The Merlot-based 2019 Illustration Proprietary Red is 81% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and just 4% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sourced from the estate property in Yountville but supplemented by purchased fruit from the Hudson and Stagecoach Vineyards, it's cedary, with mocha overtones to the cherry fruit. Full-bodied, plush, richly velvety and long on the finish, this is a truly remarkable Napa Valley Merlot, a rare thing indeed.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2019 Illustration, Blackbird's Merlot-based wine, is deep, fleshy and super-expressive. Juicy dark cherry, plum, chocolate, licorice and new leather are front and center. The 2019 possesses quite a bit of depth as well as energy. Give it a few years to soften.
The deep ruby/purple-hued 2019 Illustration Proprietary Red is mostly Merlot yet includes 15% Cabernet Franc and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon. Lots of varietal currants, cherries, chocolate, and spice notes define the bouquet, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness as well as ripe, silky tannins, plenty of fruit, and a great finish. It's certainly an outstanding wine and will drink nicely for 10-15 years.
The 2019 Illustration is a bold, fruity wine. Pretty floral and savory notes give this Merlot-based red striking aromatic nuance and complexity. Cedar, pipe tobacco, mint, dried flowers and herbs are beautifully layered into a core of blue and black berry fruits. I very much like the vibrancy here.