A postscript to my recent visit to McPherson Cellars. Since we had commented that the IFB Red was such a letdown after the other two reds and we had been chatting with our hostess about red preferences, she brought a taste of La Herencia out. I got a glass to enjoy during our behind the scenes tour. Here’s why…
Their Notes: Spicy, deep, and bright, ‘La Herencia’ is built on a foundation of Spanish Tempranillo carefully bolstered by Mourvedre, Syrah, and Carignan for additional depth. Cool earth and incense form the core of an otherwise crimson-fruited glass—woodsmoke, cherry jam, and the barest hint of gaminess become more persistent after twenty minutes of air. Tannins are supple and rounded, while acidity holds the wine upright with delicate juiciness. ‘La Herencia’ is best matched with brisket, and hot baked beans in no short supply.
My Notes: This blend has the Tempranillo spice but is lighter in the mouth than a traditional Tempranillo. Flavors of peach and juniper were the most prominent, with an underlying flavor of raspberry jam. It was the perfect wine for sipping during the tour, and would go great with barbeque brisket stuffed potatoes with lots of cheese and sour cream. At the same time, it would be at home with a big slice of chocolate cake. The blend takes the edge off a traditional Tempranillo, and enhances the smoothness of the wine – making it perfect for sipping. It’s a curl up in front of the fireplace with a book on a rainy Sunday afternoon and just enjoy life.
Final Thoughts
‘La Herencia’ means ‘the inheritance.’ And given that history of the Texas High Plains AVA says that Tempranillo grapes were some of the first planted in the 1960s, the name makes sense. As you can see it’s won a couple of awards, but I couldn’t tell you what or when. But does it really matter when it’s just a great wine to drink?
