YAO MING Lunar New Year "Ox" Limited Edition Red Wine 2018

The Yao Family Wines 2018 Family Table Red Wine is 100% Napa Valley and a blend of Petit Verdot, Zinfandel and Syrah.  While each of these varietals will produce dramatically different wines depending upon the vintage and terroir, this particular blend leans towards the south end of the Napa Valley emphasizing dazzling dark garnet color and bright red to purple fruit.

At the top of the glass you are instantly intrigued with hints of clove, allspice and the perfume of fresh flowers.  In the mouth this theme is expanded to include blueberry, boysenberry with even more explosive florals reminiscent of a field of wild flowers finishing in lavender and well-integrated French oak.

While the wine is powerful, it provides a wonderful counter balance to entrees that would otherwise dominate.  The explosive florals and red fruit work especially well with rack of lamb but are sturdy enough to add an elegant new dimension aged beef while delicate enough to pair with wild caught salmon.