Robert Parker, Jr:  Rated the Blackjack Ranch as an "Outstanding" producer.  "This is one of the best-run wineries in Santa Barbara. Proprietor Roger Wisted clearly looks to France for his inspiration. His wines possess all the flavor of California yet more elegance and complexity than is typical for many of this state's wines. Wisted also fashions the finest Bordeaux blends of the Santa Barbara region."

Winery:  "Robert Parker, Jr. awarded Blackjack Ranch a Five-Star rating for the production of Bordeaux varietals, specifically Billy Goat Hill Merlot and for Harmonie. We are one of only two wineries outside Napa/Sonoma to achieve his highest ranking.

The Harmonie is presently a superstar in the finer steakhouses in Orange County and is drinking beautifully with bone-in rib eyes and porterhouses. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot all shine through. Layer upon layer upon layer of big, bold tarry black and blue fruit. Highly elegant, extraordinary nuances of black cherry extract are highlighted by espresso, black truffles, cassis, blueberries, and the slightest hint of old fashioned black licorice. French oak all the way. Drinking well already, tannins are there but not dominant. The 2004 Harmonie will drink well and be highly enjoyable for 10 to 20 years. When it starts to pick up bottle nuances, look out."

Wired For Wine:  Talk about lineage...  The Blackjack Harmonie  went from a Robert Parker 91 in 2001, a 92 in 2002, and then a 93-95 in 2003.  The 2004 is not yet rated; our advice is hang on to your hats and get it now, winelovers!  This Harmonie is not easy to find. 

The complexity and many layers of this stunning red require bold meat flavors.  We suggest beef, steak and lamb; some game will work too.  We love the sensuously rich dark fruits of this Blackjack juxtaposed against the delicious char of well-marbled steak.  The espresso and truffle notes will play beautifully with that same char.  For a crowd, we recommend a butterflied leg of lamb simply seasoned.  Roast some eggplant to go with it and watch that crowd smile.  Another crowd-pleaser which will showcase this elegant superstar as it should be is a top shelf prime rib.  Stir a nutty, medium-sharp cheddar into a creamy polenta and serve that on the side.   Our preference when the meal is over is to have one last swim through the many delicious layers of this Blackjack with a final glass or two on its own.  If you're in the mood for a little more to eat, we would have a Spanish sheep's milk Manchego.  It's nutty and tangy and goes great with a rustic, crusty bread.  Harmonie indeed...

Size:  750ml
Vintage: 2004
Varietal:  Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdo
Alcohol:  13.6%
Region: Santa Barbara County, California
Production:  Limited!