"The Merkin Vineyards "Chupacabra" is a shape-shifter wine, evolving vintage after vintage. In 2006 it contains a large percentage of top-notch Caduceus Sensei fruit. Bold and mysterious, the wine shows both a light and dark side. From black fruit, tobacco and forest aromas and flavors to kiwi, grapefruit and nettle on the lighter end, this smoky, complex red is enticing from first sip."
M.J. Keenan
Owner & Novice Winemaker
"Smooth and spicy, with lively wild berry and blackberry flavors that are crisp and inviting. Drinks well. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Sangiovese. Drink now. 490 cases made."
Wine Spectator
Caduceus Cellars is the brainchild of singer, songwriter, musician, record producer and winemaker, Maynard James Keenan. Keenan is best known as the lead singer of rock bands Tool, A Perfect Circle as well as new side project Puscifer, currently on tour.
MJK is owner of Merkin Vineyards and the associated winery, Caduceus Cellars, and has part ownership of Arizona Stronghold Vineyards, all located in Arizona, where he lives and where he makes wine with the help of Page Springs Cellars owner Eric Glomski.
"My great grandparents and my great uncle, Mr. Marzo, had vineyards and made wine somewhere in pre-World War II Europe, either southeastern France or northern Italy--by some reports, the Susa area in Piedmont. My tastes in wine reflect this history. It's even apparent in my choice of home. Clearly I and my fathers are one."
-Maynard James Keenan
2006 MERKIN VINEYARDS “CHUPACABRA”
+566265 · 12x750ml · SPEC
STATUS: AVAILABLE
Caduceus Cellars
The Primer Paso blend Syrah with Malvasia Bianca, a tip of the hat to the wines of Cote Rotie. The muscular Syrah is sourced from a distinct site in Paso Robles that Maynard literally fought a winemaking giant to obtain. The Syrah, however, only plays a supporting role to the Malvasia Bianca, the Queen . Smoke notes are balanced by orange zest, plum and honeydew on the nose. On the palate, the wine shows black tea, cola and blueberry.
“Firm and spicy, with a complex, delicate mix of mineral, dried berry, currant and sage flavors that are full-bodied and evenly presented, gaining complexity and subtlety on the finish. Syrah and Malvasia Bianca. Drink now through 2017.”
Wine Spectator
2007 CADUCEUS “PRIMER PASO”
+12229 · 12x750ml · SPEC
91
STATUS: AVAILABLE
