2019 rr poet - allusion

winemaker notes:

Dark ruby-purple in color with an absolutely riveting bouquet--black currant, black plum, violets, eucalyptus, mint, gravel with nuances of smoldering incense, Mexican vanilla bean, dark chocolate. Exquisitely balanced on the palate with a lovely tension between the lively acidity and very fine-grained tannins. Slightly firm and savory on the palate with notes of black currant, black cherry, black plum, eucalyptus, wild mint, gravel, and gentle overtones of violets and dried sage. The very long, rich finish reverberates with notes of violets, black currant, and gravel. This wine should reach maturity in 8-10 years, and properly cellared, this wine will gracefully evolve for 20+ years. 

65% Merlot & 35% Cabernet Franc - PineBrake Vineyard

Only 10 Barrels Produced 

This wine has been released and has been allocated to members. There are currently very limited quantities of this wine available to purchase from our library. You can purchase this wine by clicking the ‘Purchase’ button below. Cheers!


critics’ notes:

“Based on 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc from a site in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA, the 2019 Allusion PineBrake Vineyard sports a deep ruby/purple hue to go with a gorgeous nose of sweet crème de cassis, spicy wood, chocolate, and smoked tobacco. These carry to a medium to full-bodied, pure, plush, elegant red offering sweet tannins, beautiful overall balance, and a great finish. This forward, sexy, incredibly charming red blend is perfect for drinking over the coming 7-8 years, if not longer.” - Jeb Dunnuck - 94 Points

“A new producer on the scene - RR Poet is producing stunning wines right out of the gate. This phenomenal wine comprised of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc is sure to impress. Beautiful medium to dark ruby with a silvery rim in the glass, the notes of black cherry, matchstick, dark plum, dried mountain mint integrated with dark chocolate notes are intoxicating. Medium-high acidity, crunchy tannins, and a perfectly balanced mouthfeel are all present. What an amazing effort that you can enjoy over the next decade or more.” - Jeremy Young - International Wine Report - 95 Points

“The 2019 ‘Allusion’ is a compelling blend of 65% Merlot with the remainder Cabernet Franc. Once on the nose this takes on layers of mocha, tar and sagebrush alongside red bell pepper and a dusting of white pepper. The palate is soft and seamless with great flavors density and a core of dark fruits with tobacco leaf, dark chocolate shavings and anise. Drink 2021-2035” - Owen Bargreen - Vinous - 94 Points

“This blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc is an attention-getter. The aromas announce themselves with notes of nori, coffee, struck flint, chocolate and cherry. The palate is plump and polished, with the fruit front and center. Lightly sandy tannins back it up. Best after 2025.” - “Cellar Selection”- Sean Sullivan - Wine Enthusiast Magazine - 93 Points


Technical Details

  • Alcohol 14.5%

  • pH 3.74

  • TA 6.0 g/L

  • Cold soak 144 hours

  • Punchdowns 2-3 times/day during fermentation

  • Aged sur lie for 19 months in French Oak

  • Oak profile is 50% new French oak (Troncais) and 50% neutral French oak

  • Racked once prior to bottling

  • Unfined

  • Filtered via super-gentle crossflow technology


2019 RR Poet Allusion and Wine Glass