The 2009 Red Blend 175 (all sourced from Monterey and Santa Barbara counties) is a blend of 57% Syrah, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Zinfandel and the rest Viognier. It does not see much oak and the result is an exuberant, quasi-Rhone Ranger-styled red with a deep plum/ruby/purple color as well as abundant black currant fruit notes intermixed with hints of white chocolate, pepper and earth. It is a spicy, delicious, endearing, medium-bodied red with exuberant fruit as well as a boisterous personality. There are 19,000 cases of this sensational value that should drink well for 1-2 years. This winery was a perennial under-achiever until it was purchased by the huge Gallo empire. Since then, the quality has taken a dramatic turn for the better. Moreover, there are lots of values to be found at Bridlewood Estate Winery, especially their Red Blend 175.www.bridlewoodwinery.com