What Kind of Wine Is 7 Moons Red Blend?
7 Moons Red Blend is an intriguing Californian dry red wine that has been blended from seven unique types of grapes. Each grape corresponds to a different phase of the moon, hence the name of the wine. These are Syrah, Merlot, Petite Syrah, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Grenache. These grapes are harvested from vineyards in Lodi and the Central Coast of California – a region known for its acclaimed wines and state-of-the-art wineries.
The most successful wines made in California are typically a blend of various red grapes. The best examples are a combination of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes, in the footsteps of the Bordeaux estate, or a blend of Grenache and Syrah, similar to France’s Rhône Valley. The inevitable question is, how can such a complex blend of so many types of grapes, display clear aromatic intensity? Will it be confused or make a positive impression on wine enthusiasts? Let us find out in 7 Moons Red Blend review!
7 Moons Red Blend Review
- Winery — 7 Moons
- Country/Region — United States, California, Lodi
- Type — Californian Red Blend
- Aroma — Black Berries, Black Cherries, Redcurrants, Eucalyptus, Dill, Dark Chocolate, Vanilla
- Grapes — Syrah, Merlot, Zinfandel, Petite Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Grenache
- Taste — Red Plums, Raspberries, Strawberries, Milk Chocolate, Hints Of Leather And Charred Wood
- Alcohol Content — 13.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Barbecued Chicken, Salads, Pizza
7 Moons Red Blend, a product of biodynamic viticulture, is an interesting wine that combines seven of the most classic black grape varieties into a smooth and fruity blend. With a massive appeal to wine drinkers, 7 Moons red wine successfully celebrates the phases of the moon, as its name suggests, and is the perfect beverage to drink while taking in the summer night sky, preferably by moonlight.
Tasting Notes
7 Moons Red Blend is a fruity, smooth, somewhat complex red wine that is very easy to drink. Rich flavors of fruits such as plum prevail over others. It is also slightly sweet and, the tannins are on the ripe side. Aromas of milk chocolate and vanilla envelope your nose from the moment the bottle is opened. 7 Moons Red Blend is an ideal choice for lovers of a red wine that maintains a certain complexity but does not overdo the overripe tannins.
Appearance
7 Moons Red Blend wine has a deep purple-ruby color, just like ripe red plums, and showcases its playfulness from the first moment that it is poured into a glass. The romantic color also brings to mind red roses. It is sure to capture the attention of wine enthusiasts.
Taste
7 Moons Red Blend is an extremely fruity wine that is full of the flavors of black and red fruits. I am talking about plums and black cherry to raspberries. In fact, the cherries taste as if they have been dipped into chocolate. After the initial taste subsides, the second wave of fruits comes; this time fresh strawberries and baked tarts decide to join the dance. The tannins are also present. They add the necessary ingredient to bring all the other flavors alive.
Finish
Even though the finish is not too long, it retains the complexity and quality of 7 Moons Red Blend. The straightforward fruitiness of the wine remains consistent to the end.
Rating
7 Moons Red Blend is a very refreshing red wine with eye-catching color and multiple layers of aromatic fruitiness. Even though it is a blend of seven different grape varieties, it is very easy to drink and has a long jammy aftertaste. Ultimately, this a fantastic example of Californian winemaking, and this versatile wine is bound to become a favorite. Pair it with many tasty nibbles, and you can get the party started!
7 Moons Red Blend Food Pairing
7 Moons Red Blend is characterized by versatility and fruitiness. This makes it easy to pair with both sweet and savory food. It is the perfect companion to barbecued beef steaks, chicken, pizza, and even Asian dishes. Finally, 7 Moons Red Blend would also makes a great choice for serving at weddings or other large gatherings where the same wine is served throughout the event.
About the Grapes
To truly appreciate the complexity of this great blend, a brief introduction to the grapes used is mandatory.
Syrah
The Syrah grape, also known as the Shiraz in Australia, is one of the noble black grape varieties. It produces wines of different styles. Expect a Syrah wine to be in the range of medium to full-bodied with very ripe black fruit flavors, hints of licorice, and black pepper. Syrah’s intense fruit flavors, together with its deep color and strong tannins, produce wines that are ideal for long-term aging.
Merlot
Wines produced from the Merlot grape are renowned for their fruitiness. They have notes of red berries and figs, as well as creamy chocolate aromas. Generally, this grape gives refreshing wines and it is a popular staple in many blends. The Merlot grape is grown in France, the United States, and Chile.
Petite Syrah
This uncommon grape is used almost entirely in red blends. Rarely is a wine produced from Petite Sirah only. In examples where it is, you will get a particularly deep purple color wine with flavors of blackberry, black pepper, and plums. It is worth mentioning that Petite Syrah took its name from the small size of the grapes that grow on the vine. The Petite Syrah grape is grown in the United States and Australia.
Zinfandel
The Zinfandel grape is of Italian origin but has been successfully cultivated in California. It ages marvelously and usually gives full-bodied red wines with deep red fruit aromas and flavors. If bottled young, Zinfandel will release an intense strawberry fragrance that changes to marshmallow in the mouth. The Zinfandel grape is grown in Italy and the United States.
Cabernet Sauvignon
One of the world’s most famous grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon has been extensively cultivated around the globe. This grape can produce the simplest to the most complicated wines and is often blended with Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Its character is botanical, with eucalyptus, green bell pepper, and licorice in the forefront. Other aromas include black currant, leather, and coffee. The Cabernet Sauvignon grape is grown in France, Argentina, Chile, and the United States.
Malbec
This French grape variety has found success in Argentina, where it is held in high regard by the locals. Malbec wines have deep purple color. You will also detect smoke, leather, mulberry, and bramble. If used in a blend, such as 7 Moons Red Blend, it’s because of its ability to increase the overall structure and balance lighter, fruitier wines. The Malbec grapes grow in France and Argentina.
Grenache
A versatile grape variety, Grenache usually supplements other grapes and helps in the creation of full-bodied wines. It adds flavors that are jammy and increases the levels of alcohol. It is drought-tolerant and, therefore is grown in hot climates. In Spain, it is blended with Carignan or Tempranillo and produces deep-colored wines with notes of black fruits and toasty oak. The Grenache grape grows in: France, Spain, Australia, and the United States.
A versatile grape variety, Grenache usually supplements other grapes and helps in the creation of full-bodied wines. It adds flavors that are jammy and increases the levels of alcohol. It is drought-tolerant and, therefore is grown in hot climates. In Spain, it is blended with Carignan or Tempranillo and produces deep-colored wines with notes of black fruits and toasty oak. The Grenache grape grows in: France, Spain, Australia, and the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Makes 7 Moons Red Blend?
7 Moons Red Blend is produced by Moons Wine that is owned by Constellation Brands, a renowned drinks company.
How Is 7 Moons Red Blend Made?
As its name suggests, 7 Moons Red Blend is a dry red wine that celebrates the phases of the moon by combining seven grape varietals: Syrah, Merlot, Petite Syrah, Zinfandel, Cabernet, Malbec, and Grenache. While the winemaking process, from the picking of the grapes to the alcoholic fermentation and bottling, is the same as all other reds, grape growing is an entirely different story.
In the second half of the twentieth century, the intense use of chemicals in the vineyard to control pests and diseases caused serious environmental damage to vines and the surrounding areas. For this reason, grape growers decided to reduce their use by adopting organic practices and introduced biodynamic viticulture. Also, vineyards are seen as part of a connected system with Earth, the air, and other planets so, vintners like those who produce the 7 Moons Red Blend, have adapted their techniques. Consequently, it is quite fascinating to note that 7 Moons Red Blend is not only Lunar-inspired in words but also in action.
Where Is 7 Moons Red Blend Made?
7 Moons Red Blend is made in Lodi, California, home of some of the oldest and best Zinfandel vineyards in the United States. It is also one of the major centers of American wine production. Lodi has been a respected part of California’s wine industry for over 100 years. It straddles the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys and lies in the middle of the Central Valley. Each day it benefits from the cooling breezes from San Francisco Bay. Furthermore, the region of California has the vast majority of American wineries because of its perfect Mediterranean climate. The combination of warmth, bright sun, and cooling influences from the Atlantic Ocean means that California’s winemakers can deliver a diverse range of premium wine.
How to Serve 7 Moons Red Blend?
Ideally, 7 Moons Red Blend should be served at room temperature (approximately 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15-18 degrees Celsius). However, this red blend could benefit from a light chilling, as it is characterized by berry aromas rather than tertiary aromas of leather, vanilla, or cloves.
As a dry red wine, a larger-sized wine glass will allow the air to come into contact with the wine surface and release its aromatic flavors. I would also recommend a balloon-shaped glass as its large bowl will give 7 Moons Red Blend space to breathe. Decanting is also an option, but not necessary, as the wine is aromatic enough without needing additional aeration.
How Much Does 7 Moons Red Blend Cost?
This seven grape variety blend is very affordable, with the price ranging from just $9 to $17 per 750ml bottle depending on the vendor and year of bottling. The 7 Moons Red Blend price point is an opportunity for wine enthusiasts to enjoy the bold fruitiness of this example of Californian biodynamic viticulture.
How Long Does 7 Moons Red Blend Last?
Considering how fruity a wine 7 Moons Red Blend is, perhaps it would be unwise to put it away for long-term aging as that would put its freshness at risk. It is not out of the question though. Under the right conditions, it may expand its secondary and tertiary aromas such as leather, vanilla, cloves and may develop others like mushrooms, tobacco, and forest floor. 7 Moons Red Blend is not intended for any sort of aging but should be enjoyed while it is young. This wine should always be sealed with a cork and stored on its side. Avoid direct exposure to any light, and temperatures should be between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 15 degrees Celsius).
How Many Calories Does 7 Moons Red Blend Have?
7 Moons Red Blend has a somewhat high-calorie density. There are about 30 calories in 1 fluid ounce of the beverage, equating to a total of 170 calories per serving. The calories breakdown is: 0g Fats, 0g Sodium, 5g Total Carbohydrate, 0g Protein. Therefore, 7 Moons Red Blend calories exist but they are nothing to worry about, making the wine a solid dietary choice. Further 7 Moons Red Blend alcohol content is 13,5%.
Conclusion
7 Moons Red Blend, a product of biodynamic viticulture, is an interesting wine that combines seven of the most classic black grape varieties into a smooth and fruity blend. With a massive appeal to wine drinkers, 7 Moons red wine successfully celebrates the phases of the moon, as its name suggests, and is the perfect beverage to drink while taking in the summer night sky, preferably by moonlight.
