Boglle Phantom, 2008

I had every intention of reviewing this wine the beginning of October when it was first released.  Well ... you can see how that worked out for me.  

Bogle Phantom is a single release wine coming into the stores every October.  It's release is anxiously awaited by customers and when the stores run out of their allotment it is not guaranteed they will get any back in (it all depends on what is available in the warehouse).  As soon as it hit the store shelves I purchased a bottle.  When I did tastings on it last month, it sold quite well. 

Bogle 2008 Phantom ($16) is from California.  It is a blend of 51% Old Vine Zinfandel (from Lodi and Amador), 47% Petite Sirah (from Clarksburg) and 2% Old Vine Mourvedre (from Amador) and aged 30 months in American oak.  The color is a rich dark purple.  The aroma is dark fruit, cassis, tobacco, chocolate, and cedar.  The flavors are earthy, spice, and chocolate.  A complex wine that is well balanced with mild tannins. 

Winemaker's Notes:  Phantom is back…Bogle’s apparition of fierce berry and sensual spice returnsto tease and tantalize. Notes of juicy boysenberry and black fruit are deepened with aromas of pipe tobacco and black pepper, while subtle hints of clove and vanilla softly envelop the palate. Intense and luscious, the rich character opens to reveal red fruit of spirited cranberries and raspberries. Over two years in 1, 2, and 3 year old America oak capture and concentrate the essence of the three unique varietals, creating yet another vivid and full-bodied red wine, impossible to ignore.

Though the wine is remarkable now, age in the bottle will only integrate these distinct varietals more. Welcome the winery ghost into your home again with this latest vintage, and enjoy with full-flavored and hearty meals…before it vanishes again.