2020 Complicated Red Wine Monterey County 750ml

Complicated Red Wine 2020 – 28.2 Proof (14.1% ABV) | 750ml

Rich, vibrant, and approachable, Complicated Red Wine 2020 is a California red blend showcasing the character of Monterey County. Crafted from 69% Grenache and 31% Syrah, this medium-bodied red offers expressive aromas of fresh raspberry, dried fig, crushed violet, and hazelnut, followed by flavors of black cherry, plum, blueberry, and milk chocolate. Bottled at 14.1% ABV (28.2 proof) in a 750ml bottle, it combines bright acidity, ripe fruit, subtle oak influence, and a smooth finish for an exceptionally food-friendly wine. 

Key Details

Wine Type: Red Blend
Vintage: 2020
Grapes: 69% Grenache • 31% Syrah
Region: Monterey County, California
Alcohol Content: 14.1% ABV (28.2 Proof)
Bottle Size: 750ml
Winemaker: Amanda Ingram
Style: Medium-Bodied • Fruit-Forward • Balanced

Process & Production

Complicated Red Wine is made from grapes sourced in Monterey County, where cool coastal influences and abundant sunshine create a long growing season that helps develop ripe fruit while maintaining freshness and balance.

The Grenache undergoes a 24-hour cold soak to preserve its delicate aromatics, while the Syrah receives extended skin contact to enhance color, fruit character, and spice. After fermentation, the selected lots are blended and aged in French and American oak barrels, bringing together the fruit, structure, and subtle oak character of the finished wine.

Appearance

Bright ruby red with rich garnet highlights.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Fresh raspberry, dried fig, crushed violet, hazelnut, and subtle floral aromas.

Palate: Medium-bodied and vibrant with flavors of black cherry, ripe plum, blueberry, milk chocolate, and red fruit, supported by balanced acidity.

Finish: Smooth and lingering with hints of vanilla, gentle oak, ripe berry, and soft spice. 

What Makes It Special

The 2020 Complicated Red brings together Grenache and Syrah to create a California interpretation of a Rhône-style red blend. Monterey County's cool coastal climate helps preserve acidity and freshness, while the fruit receives enough sunshine to develop concentrated flavors.

The combination of bright red fruit, darker berry notes, floral character, chocolate, and subtle oak creates a wine that is approachable on its own while remaining versatile at the table. Wine Enthusiast rated the 2020 vintage 92 points, highlighting its raspberry, red currant, red flower, and earthy character.

How to Enjoy

Serve slightly below room temperature to highlight the wine's fruit and acidity. Enjoy on its own or pair with grilled steak, roasted chicken, burgers, lamb, charcuterie, pizza, hearty pasta, roasted vegetables, or aged cheeses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grapes are used?
The 2020 vintage is a blend of 69% Grenache and 31% Syrah.

Where is it from?
Monterey County, California.

What is the alcohol content?
14.1% ABV (28.2 Proof).

What is the bottle size?
750ml.

What does it taste like?
Fresh raspberry, dried fig, violet, hazelnut, black cherry, plum, blueberry, milk chocolate, and subtle vanilla.

Is it food-friendly?
Yes. Its balanced acidity and medium-bodied structure make it especially versatile with grilled meats, pizza, pasta, charcuterie, and roasted dishes.

Brand Story

Complicated Wines, part of Trinchero Family Wine & Spirits, approaches winemaking with the philosophy that great wine doesn't have to be complicated. The brand focuses on approachable, food-friendly wines that showcase the character of their growing regions. Winemaker Amanda Ingram brings her experience from two hemispheres to the wines, emphasizing bright fruit, balance, and the distinctive character of Monterey County.