Troublemaker by Austin Hope

Unleash the Troublemaker: A Deep Dive into Hope Family Wines' Bold Red Blend

A Californian Red Blend Built for Adventure

At The General Wine Company, we're thrilled to introduce you to Troublemaker, a red blend from Hope Family Wines that's anything but ordinary. This isn't your average Californian Cabernet Sauvignon. Troublemaker is a masterful union of five charismatic grape varietals, each bringing its own distinct personality to create a wine that's both harmonious and captivating.

A Feast for the Senses: Unveiling Troublemaker's Aroma and Appearance

Pour yourself a generous glass of Troublemaker and let the rich, deep ruby colour take centre stage. Hold it up to the light and admire the vibrant hues that hint at the complexity within. On the nose, a captivating bouquet unfolds. Black fruit notes of blackberry and plum intertwine with hints of spice like black pepper and clove. Earthy tones peek through, adding a touch of rustic charm that promises a well-rounded drinking experience.

The Taste: A Bold Journey on the Palate

The first sip of Troublemaker is an explosion of flavour. The Syrah grape lays the foundation, offering a robust structure with notes of blackcurrant and peppery spice. Grenache steps forward with its bright, juicy red fruit character, like raspberry and cherry, adding a layer of refreshing acidity. Mourvèdre adds a touch of gaminess and earthiness, hinting at wild herbs and leather. Petite Sirah brings depth and power, with hints of dark chocolate and espresso, while Zinfandel ties it all together with its signature burst of juicy acidity and a touch of white pepper.

This isn't a shy wine. Troublemaker is full-bodied and bold, with a velvety texture that coats the tongue. The tannins are present but well-integrated, ensuring a smooth and satisfying finish that lingers long after the last sip.

Serving Suggestions and Food Pairings

To fully appreciate the complexity of Troublemaker, serve it at a cool room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes before serving can further enhance the aroma and soften the tannins.

Food Pairings:

Troublemaker is a culinary chameleon, capable of pairing beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Here are some suggestions to get your taste buds tingling:

• Grilled meats: The bold flavours of Troublemaker stand up perfectly to grilled meats like steak, lamb chops, and sausages. The smoky notes from the grill complement the peppery spice of the Syrah, while the juicy acidity cuts through the richness of the meat.
• Hearty stews and casseroles: Rich stews and casseroles find a perfect partner in Troublemaker. The wine's robust structure can handle the heartiness of the dish, while the fruit notes complement the vegetables and herbs.
• Barbecued food: Take your barbecue game to the next level with Troublemaker. The wine's smoky and spicy notes pair beautifully with barbecued meats, vegetables, and even smoky cheeses.
• Hard cheeses: Troublemaker's bold tannins can hold their own against strong cheeses like aged cheddar, Gruyère, or Gouda. The contrast in textures creates a delightful interplay on the palate.
• Mushroom dishes: Earthy mushroom dishes find a wonderful match in Troublemaker. The wine's earthy notes complement the flavour of the mushrooms, while the fruitiness adds a touch of brightness.

The Final Word: A Wine for Rule Breakers

Hope Family Wines' Troublemaker is a red blend that lives up to its name. It's a wine for those who appreciate bold flavours and unconventional approaches. With its complex character and versatility with food pairings, Troublemaker is sure to become a favourite for adventurous wine lovers. So next time you're looking for a wine that challenges the status quo, reach for a bottle of Troublemaker and get ready to have your taste buds awakened.