2009 CONTRARIAN
Napa Valley Proprietary Red Wine
"The 2009 Contrarian opens with expressive scents of toffee, dark chocolate, blackberry, and smooth vanilla. On the palate, flavors of black fruit complement layers of intricately structured fine-grained tannins that hold great density and weight. The finish is polished, supple, and harmoniously precise. This wine is delicious now and will also age well over time. Blackbird's 2009 vintage wines showcase grapes farmed with an ideal hang time, offering wines with bright flavors, balanced sugars, and acidity."
— Winemaker, Aaron Pott
| Blend | 41% Cabernet Franc 35% Cabernet Sauvignon 24% Merlot |
|---|---|
| Harvest | October 2009 |
| Release | Spring 2012 |
| Barrel Regime | 21 months in French Oak barrels - 75% new, 25% seasoned |
| pH | 4.03% |
| Total Acidity | 0.52 |
| Alcohol | 14.5% |
| Production | 477 cases |
| Optimum Drinking | 2012 - 2025 |
| Retail Price | $125 |
The Blackbird Vineyard
| Appellation | Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley |
|---|---|
| Vineyard Size | 10 Acres |
| Vines | 5,717 planted in 1997 |
| Topography | Valley Floor |
| Varietal | Merlot |
| Clone | 3 |
| Root Stock | 110R |
Vive les différences...
Contrarian is a textured blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon possessing both an aromatic richness and subtle tannin profile. It exudes Blackbird Vineyards' Pomerol-inspired elegance, while displaying the regal posture that comes from superior Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. A wine to indulge in now and for decades to come, Contrarian's uniquely supple structure flouts convention.
Vintage Notes: 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 
Editorial Reviews | Peer to Peer Reviews
Illustration | Paramour | Arise | Arriviste
Taste Blackbird's wines in a revolutionary format. Featured on Oprah's O List, The "Flock Box Collection" contains a selection of four 50ml glass bottles for sampling Blackbird's Merlot and Cabernet Franc blends. Blackbird's wine samples should be savored shortly after their shipment date (typically within 6 months) to experience their true character. Acquire
