Markus Wine Company 2015 “Domo” Lodi Red Blend; Borra Vineyards, Lodi, California. 13.8% ABV; SRP $39/bottle.
A dry red blend of 75% carignane, 15% petite sirah, and 10% sirah. Aged 17 months in 25% once-filled French oak casks. 71 cases made, bottled March 10, 2017.
Color is deep and lustrous garnet with ruby center. The nose is of red roses, stewed plums, and wildflowers. On the palate is massive red fruit- plum, cherry, and raspberry dominates while softer notes of spices and tobacco leaf follow, with a hint of loam on the tart, satisfying finish. The massive fruit is matched with beautiful acidity and a solid tannic backbone.
I was so excited when I tasted this wine that I re-corked it with argon and then took the bottle to a party that night, where I poured blind tastes for friends along with two other top shelf new and old world red blends. After tasting all the wines, and without prompting or provocation, people unanimously came back to Markus Domo- against red blends costing two and three times more, respectively- as the wine they wanted to drink. After a few minutes, I asked people to suggest where they thought the wine was from. “You love French wines, is it Bordeaux?” said one guest. “This is Italy for sure.” said another. “Napa Valley?” inquired a third. When I explained it was from Lodi, folks were surprised.
“JvB, cut to the chase! Wherever it is, from, it’s just really good. Could you pour me some more please?” said the man on my right.
I laughed, and brought back the bottle, thinking, “It’s true. Doesn’t that sum up all we need to know?”
jvb uncorked 
So glad we passed the blind tasting test! And your sharing of our wines is supremely appreciated, Jim! Cheers! – Jon (Markus’s Sidekick at Markus Wine Co.)
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oh I am so excited… going to try to find a bottle. Thanks for the headsup
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