Review: NV Clonk De Plonk by Tagaris

A lighter, friendly shade of red.

"Clonk de Plonk" first words spoken by Walker Roth.

This wine brought back memories of my Aunt Marjorie and Uncle Harry. My aunt and uncle had a reasonable sized garden behind their West Richland home. Their property backed up against the dike along the Yakima River. As kids, my brother and I spent a lot of time with Aunt Marjorie and Uncle Harry. Our outdoor playground included a dog, a couple of cows, rows of corn, lettuce, carrots and several fruit trees. In the summer, the trees my brother and I were drawn to were the cherry trees. Even with the reprimand of, “Don't eat those cherries, they are for pies!” We seldom listened. Of course we could only reach the lowest, least ripe, tart cherries. That's what this wine reminds me of, those barely reachable cherries of my childhood. Even so, this wine is far better than those cherries.

A better view of the color.

The Color of Clonk De Plonk is a clear, bright, cherry red, with a candied cherry-vanilla nose, the cherry tart follows through to the short finish. This style of red wine is not what I usually think of when I think Washington red wine. It is a gentler style of wine. A light bodied red, fruit forward, food friendly and best suited for turkey, game bird and ham. It held up well, on day two, with a reticent nose, I enjoyed the cherry-vanilla cola flavors with a somewhat tart, medium finish. Recommended with food and for those who enjoy lighter reds.

“Clonk de Plonk” those are the first words spoken by Walker, son of Tagaris winemaker Frank Roth. I first met Frank in 2005 when he was working for Rob Griffin of Barnard Griffin winery. Soon after we met, Frank was hired as winemaker for Tagaris winery of Richland, Washington. Tagaris is not just a winery, they have a full restaurant with a patio courtyard and fountain. In the summer, my wife and I enjoy live music on their large courtyard. A grand setting to showcase Franks many wines. This also explains why Clonk De Plonk is styled in such a friendly manner. It is a food wine.

Release Info:
Non Vintage blend
ABV 13.5%
Retail price: $16
Closure: Screwcap

Produced and bottles by Tagaris Winery, Richland, WA
509.628.0020
www.tagariswines.com

Cheers!

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