Red Blend Recipe

1. Chill and inspect

Remove the bottle from the refrigerator or cellar. Aperture Cellars Red Blend is typically best served slightly below room temperature, around 60–65°F (15–18°C). If the bottle is colder than this, let it sit at room temperature for 15–30 minutes before opening.

2. Clean glassware

Rinse the decanter or large wine glasses with a small amount of warm water and let the water run out. This removes dust and any residual detergent odors and slightly warms the glass if needed.

3. Open the bottle

Using a corkscrew, remove the foil and uncork the bottle carefully. Wipe the bottle lip with a clean cloth if needed.

4. Decant (recommended)

Pour the wine slowly into a decanter. For a 2021 red blend, decant for 30–60 minutes to allow the wine to open up and integrate aromas. If you don't have a decanter, let the wine breathe in the glass for 20–30 minutes.

5. Pour

Pour 4–6 ounces (120–180 ml) per serving into large-bowled red wine glasses to allow aromatic development. Fill to about one-third of the glass to leave room for swirling.

6. Swirl and smell

Gently swirl the wine in the glass to release aromas, then inhale to note primary fruit, spice, and oak characteristics of the Aperture Cellars red blend.

7. Taste

Take a small sip, let the wine coat your mouth, and note structure: acidity, tannin, fruit, and finish. If the wine tastes closed, allow additional breathing time in the decanter or glass and retaste after 15–30 minutes.

8. Serve with pairings

Arrange charcuterie, cheeses, bread/crackers, and fruit on a board. Offer these alongside the wine; richer cheeses and fatty charcuterie complement the body and tannins of the blend.

9. If you do not finish the bottle, recork it tightly and refrigerate. Use within 3–5 days for best quality. For slightly longer preservation, use a vacuum wine stopper or inert gas preservation system.