2016 P.S. Garcia ‘Bravado’ Red Blend

WSI93+ WA91-93 I tasted an unbottled sample of the 2016 Bravado, a blend of 43% Syrah, 40% Carignan, 7% Petit Verdot, 7% Mourvèdre and 3% Grenache. It has a fantastic and lively palate with very fine tannins and bright freshness, but as often happens with unbottled wines (especially when they cross the ocean), there was a touch of oxidation on the nose. I’m sure this is going to be a monumental bottle of Bravado that Geddy Lee would be proud of. They expect to produce around 22,000 bottles of this.
Garcia + Schwaderer changed its name to P.S. Garcia in 2018 to reflect the change in ownership, which is Felipe García (50%), Patricio Mendoza (40%) and his son, Sergio Mendoza (10%). They are focusing on Itata, Maule and Casablanca for Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. There are also some new sparkling wines this year.
Winemaker Notes: Inviting on the nose with notes of ripe red fruit, blackberry, blueberry, and a hint of spice. It hits the palate with incredible balance that lasts through its long finish. It has fruit at the core with an acidity from the Carignan that lifts the wine on the back palate. Pair with cherry-braised short ribs, barbequed flank steak, or grilled portobella mushrooms. 37% Syrah, 33% Carignan, 20% Grenache, 5% Mourvedre, 5% Petit Verdot
AVG. VINEYARD ELEVATION: 510 feet. AVG. AGE OF VINES: 120 years