The Federalist Wine Review: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Popular Wine Brand

The Federalist wine has been gaining popularity among wine enthusiasts due to its unique flavor profile and affordable price point. This wine is known for its rich and weighty Cabernet Sauvignon with layers of ripe, plushy blackberry, red berry, spiced plum, and toasty oak spice. The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 has an alcohol content of 14.5% and is considered extra dry.

According to wine reviews, The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is a solid last-minute pick for a BBQ. It has soft, dark fruit vibes, with a whiff of cedar and some nice, chill. The Federalist Honest Red North Coast 2018 is another wine that has been gaining popularity. This wine is a blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, and has an alcohol content of 14.5%. It has a rich flavor profile with notes of black cherry, blackberry, and vanilla.

Overall, The Federalist wine has been earning positive reviews from wine enthusiasts due to its unique flavor profile and affordable price point. Whether you are looking for a Cabernet Sauvignon or a red blend, The Federalist has a wine that will suit your taste.

The Federalist Wine Overview

Brand History

The Federalist is a craft wine brand that takes its inspiration from the American ideal. The brand is named after the Federalist Papers, a collection of 85 articles and essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, that were published in 1787-88 to promote the ratification of the United States Constitution. The Federalist brand was founded in 2010 by Terlato Wines, a family-owned wine company that has been in business for over 60 years.

The Federalist brand is known for its unique and bold packaging, which features an image of Alexander Hamilton on the label. The brand's wines are also named after prominent figures from American history, such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.

Wine Varieties

The Federalist produces a range of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, and Honest Red Blend. The brand's Cabernet Sauvignon is particularly well-regarded, with reviewers noting its "soft, dark fruit vibes, with a whiff of cedar and some nice, chill tannins" [VinePair]. The Federalist Chardonnay has also received positive reviews, with one critic describing it as "rich and buttery, with notes of vanilla and oak" [Wine Enthusiast].

The Federalist sources its grapes from some of California's most renowned wine regions, including Lodi, Sonoma County, and Napa Valley. The brand's winemakers use a combination of traditional and modern winemaking techniques to create wines that are both approachable and complex.

Overall, The Federalist brand is a great choice for wine lovers who are looking for high-quality, American-made wines that are both delicious and affordable.

The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 Review

The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is a rich and weighty red wine with layers of ripe, plushy blackberry, red berry, spiced plum, and toasty oak spice. This wine is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown in the Lodi appellation of California.

Tasting Notes

On the palate, this wine has a full-bodied and velvety texture, with firm tannins and balanced acidity. The dark fruit flavors are complemented by notes of cedar, vanilla, and a touch of chocolate. The finish is long and lingering, with a hint of blackberry jam.

Vintage Quality

The 2017 vintage of The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon is considered a very good vintage, with warm and dry weather leading to excellent ripening conditions for the grapes. The resulting wines are ripe and full-bodied, with good structure and aging potential.

Value for Money

At a price point of around $20, The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 offers good value for money. This wine is a great choice for those looking for a full-bodied and flavorful red wine that won't break the bank.

Overall, The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is a well-made and enjoyable wine that showcases the best qualities of California Cabernet Sauvignon. It is a great choice for pairing with grilled meats, hearty stews, and strong cheeses.

Wine Tasting and Rating Process

Blind Tasting Methodology

The Federalist wines are reviewed using a blind tasting methodology. In this process, the taster does not know the identity of the wine being tasted. The wines are tasted in peer-group flights of from 5-8 samples, which helps to provide context and allows for a more accurate assessment of quality. Wine Enthusiast, one of the sources for Federalist wine reviews, follows this methodology.

During blind tasting, Jim Gordon, a Wine Enthusiast reviewer, assesses the wines using a scoring system. The wines are scored based on the following criteria: appearance, aroma, body, flavor, finish, and overall quality. The scores are then tallied, and the wine is given a final score out of 100.

Understanding Scores

The Federalist wines have received scores ranging from 89 to 92 points by Wine Enthusiast. A score of 90-94 is considered "outstanding" and represents a wine of superior character and style. A score of 95-100 is considered "classic" and represents a wine of the highest quality.

It is important to note that scores are subjective and can vary from taster to taster. Scores should be used as a guide to help consumers make informed decisions about which wines to purchase, but they should not be the only factor considered.

In addition to scores, Wine Enthusiast provides detailed tasting notes for each wine, which can help consumers understand the wine's flavor profile and characteristics. These notes can be helpful in determining whether a wine is likely to appeal to an individual's personal taste preferences.

Overall, the blind tasting methodology and scoring system used by Wine Enthusiast provides a reliable and objective assessment of the quality of The Federalist wines.

Wine Selection and Buying Guide

When it comes to selecting the right wine, it is important to consider the vintage, price, and occasion. The Federalist offers a range of wines that are suitable for everyday consumption, as well as special occasions. In this section, we will discuss how to choose the right vintage and price point for your needs.

Choosing the Right Vintage

The Federalist offers a range of vintages that are suitable for different occasions. For those who are looking for a wine to enjoy on a regular basis, the 2018 Honest Red (North Coast) is a great option. This wine is a blend of red grapes and has an alcohol content of 14.5%. It is recommended for everyday consumption and is priced at $24.

For those who are looking for a wine to enjoy on special occasions, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon (Lodi) is a great option. This wine is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and has an alcohol content of 13.7%. It is recommended for special occasions and is priced at $23.

Price Considerations

When it comes to buying wine, price is an important consideration. The Federalist offers a range of wines that are priced under $20, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers. The 2018 Honest Red (North Coast) is priced at $24, making it a great option for those who are looking for a quality wine at an affordable price.

Overall, The Federalist offers a range of wines that are suitable for different occasions and price points. Whether you are looking for a wine to enjoy on a regular basis or a special occasion, there is a wine that is right for you.

Pairing and Consumption

Food Pairing Suggestions

The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is a rich and weighty wine with layers of ripe, plushy blackberry, red berry, spiced plum, and toasty oak spice. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, hearty stews, and roasted vegetables. The wine's bold tannins and acidity complement the richness of red meat, while its fruitiness balances out the earthiness of vegetables.

For a personalized wine match, consider pairing The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 with a juicy steak or a hearty beef stew. The wine's bold flavors and tannins will stand up to the richness of the meat, while its fruitiness will complement the dish's savory flavors.

Occasions and Serving

The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is a perfect party wine, suitable for both casual and formal occasions. Its bold flavors and rich texture make it an excellent choice for a last-minute wine run or a special occasion.

When serving The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, it is best to decant the wine for at least an hour before serving. This will help to soften the wine's tannins and bring out its full flavor profile. The wine should be served at room temperature, around 60-65°F, to allow the full range of flavors to come through.

In summary, The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes and is suitable for a range of occasions. Its bold flavors and rich texture make it a perfect choice for a last-minute wine run or a special occasion. When serving the wine, decant it for at least an hour and serve it at room temperature to allow the full range of flavors to come through.

Winemaking and Production

Vineyard Practices

The Federalist wines are produced by Terlato Wines, a renowned producer of premium wines. The grapes used to make the Federalist wines are sourced from carefully selected vineyards in Lodi and Sonoma County. The vineyards are known for their ideal growing conditions, which are characterized by warm days and cool nights. The Federalist wines are made from grapes that are sustainably grown and handpicked to ensure the highest quality.

The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon is made from grapes that are grown in the Lodi appellation. The vineyards are located in the Central Valley of California, where the climate is ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The grapes are harvested in the early morning hours to ensure they are at their freshest when they are brought to the winery.

Estate Grown and Bottled

The Federalist wines are estate grown and bottled, which means that the grapes are grown and harvested on the same property where the winery is located. This gives the winemakers complete control over the entire winemaking process, from grape to bottle. The Federalist wines are produced in small batches, which allows the winemakers to carefully monitor the quality of each batch.

The Federalist wines are aged in oak barrels, which imparts a unique flavor profile to the wines. The oak barrels used to age the wines are carefully selected to ensure that they are of the highest quality. The Federalist wines are bottled in sleek and elegant bottles, which are designed to showcase the premium quality of the wines.

In summary, the Federalist wines are produced by Terlato Wines using sustainably grown grapes from carefully selected vineyards in Lodi and Sonoma County. The wines are estate grown and bottled, and are aged in oak barrels to impart a unique flavor profile. The Federalist wines are known for their premium quality and are produced in small batches to ensure the highest level of quality control.

Wine Profile Characteristics

Analyzing Tannins and Acidity

The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 has a medium to high tannin level, which is typical for a Cabernet Sauvignon. Tannins are the compounds that give wine its structure and texture. They come from the skins, seeds, and stems of grapes, as well as from oak barrels. The tannins in this wine are firm yet approachable, meaning that they are not too overpowering and blend well with the other flavors in the wine.

The wine also has a moderate acidity level. Acidity is the freshness and liveliness in a wine, and it is an important component in balancing the flavors. The acidity in this wine is well-balanced and provides a crisp finish.

Flavor Profile

The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 has a complex flavor profile that is both bold and elegant. The wine has a soft texture and a sweet oak aroma, which is a result of aging in oak barrels. The oak also contributes to the wine's flavor profile, providing notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice.

The wine has a rich, dark fruit flavor, with blackberry and black cherry being the dominant flavors. There are also notes of pepper and herb, which add complexity to the wine. The finish is long and smooth, with a hint of spice and tannin.

Overall, The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is a well-balanced wine with a complex flavor profile and a smooth finish. The tannins and acidity are well-balanced, and the wine has a soft texture and a sweet oak aroma. The rich, dark fruit flavors are complemented by notes of pepper and herb, making this wine a great choice for pairing with a variety of dishes.

The Federalist Brand Differentiators

The Federalist is a brand that stands out in the American craft wine movement. As a brand, it prides itself on being distinctly American, with a rich history that's inspired by the country's founding fathers. The brand's unique selling proposition is its ability to combine innovation and tradition to create bold and flavorful wines that are sure to impress.

American Craft Wine Movement

The American craft wine movement is all about creating wines that are unique, flavorful, and reflective of their origin. The Federalist brand embodies this movement with its bold and flavorful wines that are made with new vines and innovative techniques. The brand is known for its ability to create wines that are reflective of their origin, with each bottle telling a story of the land and the people who made it.

Innovation and Tradition

The Federalist brand is known for its ability to combine innovation and tradition to create bold and flavorful wines. The brand's winemakers are constantly experimenting with new techniques and blends to create wines that are unique and exciting. At the same time, they are also committed to preserving the traditional winemaking methods that have been passed down for generations.

The brand's commitment to innovation and tradition is evident in its use of new vines. The winemakers at The Federalist are known for their ability to identify new vine varieties that are well-suited to the unique climate and soil conditions of California. This allows them to create wines that are truly reflective of their origin, with each bottle telling a story of the land and the people who made it.

In conclusion, The Federalist brand is a unique and exciting addition to the American craft wine movement. With its commitment to innovation and tradition, the brand is sure to continue to impress wine enthusiasts for years to come.

Consumer Insights

Customer Reviews and Feedback

The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 has received mixed reviews from customers. Some customers have praised the wine for its rich and weighty texture, layers of ripe, plushy blackberry, red berry, spiced plum, and toasty oak spice. They have also appreciated the wine's extra dryness and great value, especially for a Cabernet Sauvignon under $20. However, some customers have found the wine to be flawed and uncustomary, with a lack of balance and depth.

Expert Opinions

Expert opinions on The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 have been generally positive. Natalie MacLean gave the wine a score of 89/100, describing it as a rich and weighty Cab Sauvignon with layers of ripe, plushy blackberry, red berry, spiced plum, and toasty oak spice. Wine Enthusiast also gave the wine a favorable review, noting its improvement in quality over the last decade or so. VinePair recommended the wine as a solid last-minute pick for a backyard BBQ, praising its big and roasty flavor.

Overall, The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 has achieved moderate success in the wine market. While some customers have found the wine to be flawed and uncustomary, expert opinions have been generally positive. The wine's rich texture, layers of ripe fruit, and toasty oak spice have been praised by both customers and experts alike.

Exploring Other Federalist Wines

The Federalist is known for its Honest Red blend and Cabernet Sauvignon, but they also offer other varieties worth exploring. Here are two other notable blends to try:

Zinfandel Varieties

The Federalist Zinfandel is a must-try for fans of this bold and spicy grape. The 2017 Lodi Zinfandel received a rating of 90 points. This wine is made with grapes from a single vineyard in Lodi, California, and boasts flavors of blackberry, raspberry, and black pepper. It's a great choice for pairing with grilled meats or hearty stews.

For something a little different, try the Federalist Bourbon Barrel-Aged Zinfandel. This wine is aged in American oak barrels that were previously used to age bourbon, giving it a unique flavor profile. The 2018 vintage received a rating of 89 points, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and dark fruit.

Other Notable Blends

The Federalist also offers a few other blends worth checking out. The 2018 Dueling Pistols is a blend of Zinfandel and Syrah, with a rating of 90 points. This wine is a tribute to the famous duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr, and features flavors of black cherry, plum, and spice.

The Federalist Visionary is another interesting blend, made with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Zinfandel. It received a rating of 89 points, with notes of blackberry, vanilla, and oak. This wine is a great choice for pairing with grilled meats or hearty pasta dishes.

Overall, The Federalist offers a variety of blends that showcase the unique flavors of California grapes. Whether you're a fan of bold Zinfandels or smooth Cabernets, there's something for everyone to enjoy.