Markham Cellar 1879 Blend

Located in St. Helena Markham winery is actually one of the first wineries founded in the Napa Valley.  Founded by Jean Laurent who built the winery in 1874, he was on of the largest producers back in the California wine boom of the 1880's.

One hundred or so years later, Bruce Markham purchased the property and founded Markham Vineyards.  He focused mainly on Cabernet Sauvignon and added Merlot with the 1980 vintage.

In 1988 the winery was sold to Mercian Corporation. Today under the direction of Kimberlee Nicholls, Markham is producing award winning wines.

Kimberlee's Cellar 1879 Blend was created as a homage to Markham founder Jean Laurent who built the winery's stone cellar in 1879.

The 2012 Cellar 1879 Blend is a blend of 36% Merlot, 21% Petite Sirah, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Syrah, 9% Zinfandel and 8% Petit Verdot.  The wine spent 12 months in the barrel of which 30% of the barrels were new oak.

The wine had a beautiful deep garnet color.  Notes of black cherry, blackberry and smoke filled the glass. On my palate I found flavors of blackberry jam, soft tannins and a beautiful hint of soft pepper on the finish.

The wine retails for approximately $25.  Definitely would purchase this wine again.

**Note: This wine was a sample from the PR agency representing the vineyard.**