Toad Hollow Erik’s the Red 2009

By Chris and Sherry Hardie
The fun folks at Toad Hollow have named this red blend after the Norsemen explorer and conqueror Erik the Red, but it’s also a tribute to Erik Thorson, the winery’s general manager and partner.
It’s a mixture of merlot, zinfandel, cabernet sauvignon, souza, tannat, syrah and petite sirah grapes sourced from northern California vineyards. The wine was co-fermented and aged in oak for nine months before release, resulting in plenty of dark fruit and berry flavors with nuances of spice.
There’s a lot going on in this robust blend, which may a bit ambitious with its kitchen sink approach.
Sherry: “Medium-bodied and fruity, with black cherry, a little raspberry, strawberry and a touch of cocoa on the finish.” 3 stars
Chris: “Light strawberry with raspberry, black cherry and a raisin-like finish.” 3 stars
Available locally for about $12.
Coming next week: Simi Chardonnay