2020 Braxton Hall Lodi, California Red Blend

The definition fits the “Melange” red blend from Braxton Hall perfectly. It is a medley of grape varieties, ideal soils, perfect climate and passionate winemaking that results in a wine that is an absolute delight to drink.

The grapes that comprise the cuvee are Merlot and Syrah. Both varieties were grown in California’s acclaimed Lodi District, due east of San Francisco in a Central Valley area that has been providing high-quality wine grapes to estates in Napa Valley and Sonoma County for generations. Those wineries have used Lodi grapes to “fill out” their blends, particularly when there were “flavor holes” that needed “plugging.”

But this wine is 100 percent Lodi, and that’s what makes it so expressive and special. Blended and aged so it shows wonderful wood-smoke aromas and sweet fruit flavors, the 2020 Braxton Hall Red Blend deliciously defines its name.