Upshot Wine is here to give the traditional wine blend a refreshing twist. Unlike other blends, Upshot contains some surprising varietals. For example, the Upshot White Wine contains a red grape, Pinot Noir. Meanwhile, the Upshot Red Wine includes a white grape, Riesling.
This Sonoma County-based wine was launched recently by Rodney Strong, under the guidance of winemaker Justin Seidenfeld. Seidenfeld seeks to craft blends that are simultaneously affordable, fun, and a little different.
Both the Upshot White and Red are fresh, approachable, and vibrant in flavor. With their $19 price tag, these are everyday drinking wines to simply crack open and not think too hard about. Check out our full review below.
Upshot White Blend 2018
- Price: $18
- Varietal: 27% Chardonnay, 21% Grenache Blanc, 18% Gewurztraminer, 17% Pinot Noir, 11% Viognier, 6% Sauvignon Blanc
- Region: Sonoma County
- Color: Pale Straw
- How it Tastes: Upshot proves that California white blends can be crisp and lean, not just sweet or fruity. Fresh lemon, white peach, pear, and light blossom notes are countered by bright, citrusy acidity. The finish is dry and whistle clean.
- Serving Notes: Ready to drink now. This versatile white would be excellent with anything from shellfish and a squeeze of lemon to salads dressed in vinaigrette.
Upshot Red Blend 2018
- Price: $18
- Varietal: 31% Merlot, 31% Zinfandel, 30% Malbec, 5% Riesling, 3% Petit Verdot
- Region: Sonoma County
- Color: Medium Ruby
- How it Tastes: This is a bold, juicy wine with notes of cracked black pepper, cranberry, black plum, and cherry, underscored by vanilla, anise, and earth. With its savory, balsamic acidity and firm tannins, the Upshot Red is better with food, rather than consumed as a cocktail.
- Serving Notes: Ready to drink now. This is a big wine that deserves some hearty cuisine to go with it. Enjoy with stews, braises, and burgers topped with caramelized onions.
To learn more or purchase, visit upshotwines.com.