WINE CRITIQUE | Taken 2011

“I don't know who you are. I don't know what you want. If you're looking for ransom, I can tell you I don't have money but what I do have are a very particular set of skills. Skills I have acquired over a very long career…” Admittedly one of my favorite movie quotes of all time and Liam Neeson executed it flawlessly. It’s hard to not think of that movie (but easy to forget parts 2 and 3) when opening this wine.

Taken, 2011 Red Wine (60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, a rather simple but traditional blend) opened up with aromas of fresh plum, blackberries, and some oak. As it decanted it evolved adding leather and currants. This soft and very approachable wine has flavors of blueberries, chocolate, leather, balsamic, finishing with just a hint of vanilla. Taken, 2011 has great structure and is sure to be a crowd pleaser! I opened this wine with a few friends (some not even regular wine drinkers) and everyone loved it.

So what’s with the name? Childhood comrades, Trinchero (whom I reviewed before), and Phelps created Taken Wine Company with the philosophy “to craft great wines to share with our friends.” The name was originally chosen when they were having difficulty finding a name for their wines that wasn’t already “taken.” They released their first wine under the Taken label in 2010, and the brand has continued to evolve. Retails for about $30 but from the reaction I received from my friends – it’s worth it. Sláinte!

ABOUT THE WRITER Eric McMillan, The Chicago Wino, is your source for lighthearted reviews of wine. thechicagowino.com also features links to fun tools like wine/food pairing, ideal serving temperatures, and "must try" bottles! Visit thechicagowino.com for a simple look at some complex flavors. "Like" Eric on Facebook–The Chicago Wino

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