Fresh cranberry, eucalyptus bark, underripe blackberry. Prickly pear, star anise, plum pit. A terrifically lively and layered procession of wild cherry, tart raspberry, and licorice booms with delightful juiciness and crunch while hints of forest floor, bramble, and driftwood gently reveal pleasantly rugged and woody underpinnings. Notes of apple blossom, bougainvillea, and desert rose playfully expose unique floral qualities that are quickly overtaken by intriguing spice notes of cumin, cinnamon, curry powder, and black pepper. Notes of asphalt and iron provide a range of pleasant earthy charms that fade into a sensation of stony minerality which rounds out the fruity yet savory display. Impressively tart, fresh, and bright on the palate while remaining complex despite its approachability; exhibiting an intriguing mix of peppy fruit and spiced herbal qualities that comes across as unique yet thoroughly delicious. Just under medium bodied with moderate tannin followed by elevated acidity. This 2019 "Self-Love" Proprietary Red by Tank Garage Winery is an unconventional and interesting red blend from California.

Although many old world wine regions have strictly defined regulations on which grape varieties can go into their wines, no such restrictions exist in most new world regions. This bottling, crafted by Tank Garage Winery using a blend of 41% Syrah/31% Cinsaut/22% Grenache/6% Valdiguié sourced from around California, proves that following a rigid formula is absolutely not necessary to make exceptional wine. This playfully gushes plenty of juicy red and black fruits layered with woody brambly tones, complex peppery spices, interesting florals, and delicious earthiness. Although made in a fresh and early-drinking style this has sufficient structure to hold well for at least 3-5 years, and will provide tremendous enjoyment both on its own or with food. Yum.