Salton "Intenso" Marselan - 2016

From Salton winery in Rio Grande do Sul (Great River of the South) comes this lovely wine. The state has the highest life expectancy in Brazil. Before the arrival of Portuguese & Spanish settlers, it was inhabited mostly by the Guarani & Kaingang peoples (with smaller populations of Charrúa & Minuano). The first Europeans there were Jesuits. Marselan is a recent crossing between two famous red grape varieties: Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon. Medium bodied with fine tannins, good color, notes of cherry, and cassis. Smooth soft aromas of bramble fruits and ripe cherry, accompanied by spicy notes of cinnamon and clove. Juicy palate with flavors of raspberry, blackberry, black cherry, blueberry, and plum are followed by notes of toast and vanilla. A touch of earthiness and well-rounded tannins make this a great pairing with grilled meats.