19 Crimes Snoop Red Penfolds

Black berry fruits, toasted oak, a hint of vanilla — the Snoop Red from 19 Crimes is an approachable Californian red wine with real character in the glass.

19 Crimes is an Australian-American label that collaborates with California Wines and uses Petite Syrah and Zinfandel for this cuvée—two grape varieties that are as much a part of the US West Coast as almost any others. The brand gained prominence through its collaboration with Snoop Dogg, who is not only the face of the brand but also involved in the concept behind the cuvée.

In the glass, the wine displays a deep violet hue. The nose is dominated by black plum and dark blackberry, accompanied by smoky notes of American oak and a hint of vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied with soft tannins; the Zinfandel component introduces red, slightly candied cherry, which softens the denser fruit of the Petite Syrah. The finish is short to medium-long with a touch of sweetness.

• Food: BBQ ribs, burgers, spicy tomato sauces, cheddar
• Temperature: 16–18 °C
• Occasion: Barbecue, casual get-together with friends