2021 Airfield Estate "Bombshell" Red Blend
Bombshell Red Blend is a lively, food‑friendly red from Airfield Estates Winery, crafted from estate‑grown fruit in Washington’s Yakima Valley. The wine is built around Syrah and Merlot, with smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Grenache lending nuance and texture.
All fruit is estate grown in the Yakima Valley AVA, Washington’s oldest appellation, on silt loam soils over fractured basalt near the Rattlesnake Mountains. The 2021 growing season brought a hot, dry summer followed by a cool October, producing smaller berries and concentrated flavors. The fruit was harvested in stages through mid to late October to capture ripeness in each variety, resulting in a wine with depth and balanced structure.
On the nose, Bombshell opens with cut grass, boysenberry, and a hint of leather. The palate reveals black cherry, fig, maple, and orange zest, framed by modest acidity and sturdy tannins that yield a smooth, rounded mouthfeel. This is a playful, easy‑drinking blend with enough character to pair with a range of dishes.
Airfield Estates carries a rich family history—a fourth‑generation farm with aviation‑themed branding and the Airport Ranch—elements that influence a wine meant to complement everyday meals while still standing up to more flavorful pairings.
Pairing options include barbecue, burgers, and a charcuterie board, as Bombshell’s versatility shines when matched with smoky, savory flavors or a table of assorted cheeses and cured meats.