2004 Nepenthe Tryst Red

Back in 2007, we bought a few bottles of this Australian wine (screw cap, no cork) at Southern Hemisphere Wines in Huntington Beach. Tonight, we served it with grilled flank steak. Thai purple rice, and a salad.

Winemaker's notes:
The Tryst Red has been a unique (even eclectic) blend since first produced in 2001. In bringing together Adelaide Hills Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Tempranillo, Nepenthe is certainly not following any traditional blending rules.

The firm, densely colored and age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon is softened and lifted by the Zinfandel; while Tempranillo provides a backbone of savory tannins and flesh that ensures that the Tryst is a great food wine. It's fragrant and approachable now, but will go the distance, gaining complexity with time. Drink now, but will age up to five years.

Wine Spectator notes: "This has pizzazz. Polished and round, with wild berry, cherry, currant and a tang of refreshing acidity as it all lingers on the finish. Tannins are well-formed and it comes together beautifully. Drink now through 2012."

We liked the dryness from the Cabernet and the fruity finish due to the Tempranillo. A very good, inexpensive red blend.