"The Arsonist" Red Blend

Owner, John Giguiere, did not think he would burn the family home down when he was just a kid, but he did! One sunny afternoon John and his brother were lighting paper airplanes on fire and sailing them into the breeze. Unfortunately, one of them got carried into the bushes outside the family home. Fast forward 30 years John and his brother are the largest owners and farmers of vines in the Dunnigan Hills appellation of California.

Matchbook Wine Company specializes in producing wines that reflect the unique characteristics of their estate vineyards. This commitment to the land is evident in their wines that are certified green with sustainable wine growing. With a focus on healthy soils the pillars of the Matchbook program focus on many factors that lead to the healthiest soil which provides grapes with increased flavor, enhanced color and improve balance.

The Arsonist Red Blend is an ode to the accident the boys had as children, but this is not your run of the mill Bordeaux blend. With over 50% Petite Verdot the wine provides a bold lush structure. Petite Verdot is a thick-skinned grape that when aged properly will provide a rich full-bodied wine full of dark berry and plum flavors. The blend is then finished with Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec and aged for 24 months in both French and American Oak.

What the Critics Said:

“This wine is concentrated with rich aromas of blueberry, olallieberry, clove, violet, and notes of dried vanilla bean. The flavors on the palate are boysenberry, black currant confiture, paprika and orange citrus cream. Dry grippy tannins punctuate the wines finish. Decant and pair with braised lamb shank.” 92 pts – Wine Enthusiast

When we tasted the wine, we were confronted with a bold wine that was filled with dark berries and a touch of black plums. The tannins were prominent but not overpowering and we said time to get out the Barbecue. We cannot think of a better pairing than smoked ribs finished with a little char on the grill and glass of the Arsonist. Start the fire, cheers!

On sale at all three of our locations for the month of February:

• 30 Pleasant St. Leominster, MA 01453
• 15 Railroad Sq. Leominster, MA 01453
• 519 Electric Ave. Fitchburg, MA 01420