Great Wines to Pair with Summer Barbeques
With the July 4th holiday fast approaching, it’s time to plan for outings with family and friends. If you are a meat lover like I am, I’ve got a great Cabernet Sauvignon. Freakshow is produced and bottled by the Michael David winery (michaeldavidwinery.com). I had the privilege of hosting this varietal at a Market street wine sampling event.
If you’re like most of my friends the name Freakshow will peak your interest. Later in the blog I’ll tell you the story behind the name and label.
The Michael David winery is located in the Lodi Region of California. Two brothers – Michael and David Phillips – are 5th generation members of this farming family. The Phillips brothers are progressive farmers who fully embrace sustainable farming practices in 2011.
PositiveVines’ Helpful Definition : Sustainable farming – the production of food, fiber, or other plant or animal products using farming techniques that protect the environment, public health, human communities, and animal welfare.
This varietal of Cabernet Sauvignon has a small amount of Petit Sirah and is barreled in American Oak for 18 months. American Oak barrels tend to impart a stronger flavor to wines. They also show a creamier texture with hints of vanilla or coconut. Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are highly adaptable to multiple growing regions. Freakshow has grown in popularity each year with the 2011 year of production creating 20,000 cases. The 2013 harvest grew to 100,000 cases.
Technicalities aside – take a look at the cool artwork on this bottle! The Michael David winery worked with artist Ben Moreno to create unique label designs. The designs catch the eye and match the lively flavor of this bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. The label – inspired by Mr. Moreno’s memories of the circus – inspired the name Freakshow. The Phillips brothers have a sense of humor and have found a way to distinguish their wines from on store shelves.
Customers at the sampling moved this bottle off of my table and the shelves in droves! This wine features rich tastes of dark cherry, blackberry, roasted spices and vanilla followed by very mild tannins. At an average of $20 per bottle, Freakshow is great to pair with grilled meats. Grab a bottle the next time you are out and about. Post a comment and let me know what you think about it!
My next wine sampling will be this weekend (June 27th) at Market Street in Frisco from 1-7pm. Stop by for to sample wines from France and Spain!