14 Hands Winery created a special wine to commemorate its continued partnership with the Kentucky Derby® on May 2 — but this tasty red blend from the Columbia Valley is a good value wine to drink even after the 141st ‘Run for the Roses™ is over.

The 14 Hands 2012 Kentucky Derby Red is a blend of 62% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Syrah, and showcases the juicy fruit character in grapes from Washington state.

At $12 bottle, you can’t go wrong! But be sure to buy it soon, since it’s a limited release and has already sold out at the winery. You can still find it in wine and/or grocery stores.

“Our goal when crafting this unique wine was to capture the fun yet sophisticated essence of the Kentucky Derby,” said 14 Hands winemaker Keith Kenison. “What makes this red blend so unique are the layers and structure you’ll discover with each sip, from dark fruit flavors to light touches of white pepper. We are always striving to make a style of wine that everyone can enjoy, and we think the Kentucky Derby Red Blend is perfect for those who want to take a taste of the Derby home with them.”

14 Hands kicked off Derby week at the sixth annual Taste of Derby™ yesterday (April 30). Several 14 Hands wines will also be featured on Kentucky Oaks day, today (May 1), and during Kentucky Derby day itself, tomorrow (May 2).

In other winery news, 14 Hands recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of its winery and tasting room in Prosser and was named “Hot Brand for 2014” by Impact for the seventh consecutive year. Special kudos to 14 Hands for being the list’s sole winner that wasn’t from California.

Thanks to 14 Hands for the sample of 2012 Kentucky Derby Red.

Cheers!
Margot and Dave