The 2010 Cycles Gladiator Chardonnay, like its predecessor, is a lovely, fruit-forward style with a subtle use of oak. Light straw in color, it has a fresh and delicate aroma of ripe pear. Crisp and clean on the palate with layers of bright green apple, pear and citrus flavors that are impeccably balanced with nice acidity, a wisp of vanilla and a light, smooth finish. This wine is an excellent choice for a range of foods—perfect with a creamy pasta carbonara or a lovely poached halibut with white wine and tarragon, or your favorite grilled chicken.
With big black cherry fruit character on the nose and a violet crimson color, this Lodi Cabernet is a bold presence in the glass. On the palate bright flavors of dried red currants and blackberries imbue the wine's velvety mouthfeel with a mild semisweetness. Plush tannins combine with spicy flavors to create a smooth finish with a touch of dryness. This full-bodied Cabernet is equally at home at a casual barbecue served up with slow roast pork shoulder or at dinner with New York Strip Steak.
This fresh and juicy Pinot Noir bursts out of the glass with aromas of cherries. Unrestrained fruit continues on the palate with the round and supple mouthfeel complementing a medium body that frames delicate tannins. On the finish, a slight cedar and vanilla character show off a delicate oak influence in this easy drinking Pinot Noir. This wine is a great complement to porcini and cremini mushroom risotto or roast rosemary chicken.
Dark burgundy red in color, the 2010 Cycles Gladiator Merlot is classic and approachable with gorgeous fruit and rich aromas of dark plum, toasty oak and caramel. The flavors are layered and beautifully structured, with cassis, dark chocolate, plum and black cherry, which unfold in the mid-palate, fanning out to solid yet well-integrated tannins that allow the wine a lingering, silky finish. This wine shines with an array of foods. Try it with rich duck confit, braised chicken with honey and five-spice, spicy lamb kabobs or your favorite burger!
Vintage2010 TypeRed ProducerCycles Gladiator VarietalPetite Sirah Designationn/a Vineyardn/a CountryUSA RegionCalifornia SubRegionCentral Valley AppellationLodi UPC/EAN Code086788991273
Aromas of ripe black cherries and chocolate caramel pave the way for the bright, luscious flavors to come. Juicy and tart on the entry with lush boysenberry in the midpalate and a hint of dark cacao, this wine is impeccably balanced, with enough body and richness to satisfy Zin-lovers, yet has the grace and finesse to pair with the finest cuisine. Winery