Hoopla The Mutt Red Blend 2015

Drink now cellar for up to 7 years. No need to decant before serving. Hoopla is a fun and irreverent wine label made by Hoopes Vineyard which was established by Spencer Hoopes in 1983. Spencer grew up on a farm in Arizona and later developed a passion for wine after a chance invite to a wine tasting. Today this Napa Valley vineyard is run with the help of Spencer’s daughter, Lindsay, who has helped expand and grow the property from the initial 10 acres her father purchased in Oakville. Hoopla wines are inspired by the family’s love of dogs who have been their loyal companions over the years and even help to keep wild turkeys away from the ripe grapes at harvest time. The Mutt blend in particular pays homage to Maya and Sophie, the family’s two rescue dogs, who exude charm and character despite lacking pedigree status. In the same way, this cuvee is crafted from a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes which combine to create something far greater than their constituent parts. Grapes for The Mutt come from the warm St Helena sub-region, moderate Oakville and the cooler Yountville area. This breadth helps to capture an authentic portrait of the Napa terroir and ensures plenty of bright, juicy fruit flavours balanced by a subtle freshness and a silky smooth texture. Before bottling the wine is aged in French oak barrels for 18 months to add extra polish and hints of winter spice and toasted oak.

Price: £24.71 from 8wines UK