Barel Cabernet Merlot 2013
My friend AJ introduced me to Barel Vineyards with this Barel Cabernet Merlot blend from 2013. At 30-something a bottle this was a really pretty decent every day kind of wine. It’s not special but neither will it melt your insides the way some Turkish köpek gülderen (dog killer) wine will.
Okay, so that really isn’t the most ringing endorsement I could provide.
Located in the Trakya region of Thrace, Barel is vineyard owned by the Akin family. The name comes from a combination of the Akin children’s names: Elif and Barkin. Founded in 1997, Barel cultivates Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, and Sauvignon Blanc. With these grapes Barel produces a full range of wines: red, white, rose, and reserve.
Barel Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2013 Tasting Notes
At only 13.5% abv, the Barel Cabernet Merlot is not a big wine. In the glass it’s a medium opaque purple-red. The nose is quite nice: red fruits, pepper, spice, and smoke. On the palate it’s fine, but like I said not special. The wine is balanced with some soft tannins with red fruits, chocolate, and a bit of minerality.
I have to say I went into this with not a lot of expectations but I was pleasantly surprised. Especially since we drank it after killing two bottles of Chateau Kalpak perfection-and it still stood up. I’ve since picked up a bottle of the reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and am looking forward to trying it.