Long Gamma

Wine Review: Long Gamma Cellars – 2007 Red Blend

August 30th, 2010 |

Earlier this year, Simple Hedonisms reviewed the tasty Long Gamma white blend, so I was quite pleased when I got my hands on a bottle of the Long Gamma red

to taste.

Long Gamma is the brain child of the Chicago expats who founded Reynoso Vineyards of Alexander Valley over 9 years ago, and created the brand to create a high quality, value priced wine, from their own great vineyards, estate fruit, not bulk wine. Unusual for wine of this price point.

As described on the bottle label, the blend is a “an ever changing fusion that showcases the best of Sonoma County.”

Blends generally do change in percentages year over year, that’s the beauty of them, they allow the winemaker to adapt to the quality and characteristics of that years finished vintage.

Review

Region/AVA: Sonoma County (although fruit is from Alexander Valley)

Color: Deep Purple

Aroma: Ripe red fruit, blackberry, black cherry, hint of spice

In The Mouth: Pleasant melding of lush fruit that is expressive, but not an oppressive fruit bomb. Good balance and taste of fruit through front, mid palate and finish. Enough acidity and structure to let it pair well with many foods; it made me want bbq or a ribeye, drinkable alone as well though, with good ‘quaffability’ factor. Finish slightly off dry, not hot nor tannic. 14.3% alcohol: I appreciate the moderate alcohol level a red wine, especially zinfandel based under 15% is nice to find these days.

Price: (Media Sample) ~$12/bottle. Available online by the case or via retail at places like Draegers, Big John’s, Molsberry, as well as local hangouts like Healdsburg Bar & Grill.

Wine Geek Info:

The 2007 release is a blend of 75% Zinfandel, 20% Syrah, and 5% Petite Sirah.
The Zinfandel and Petite Syrah were fermented, aged in stainless steel; The Syrah barrel aged 20 months in new and neutral French oak.
750 cases produced

The Red Gamma Red would be a good buy at a higher price, it’s steal at under $15.