Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red – Bold Paso Robles Red with Cowboy Spirit

Updated → September 2025

Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red is a full-bodied Paso Robles red blend that combines rich dark fruit flavors with a touch of spice and western flair. Named for wine-loving cowboys with purple-stained teeth, this bold yet smooth wine delivers big flavor and a heartwarming backstory – including a commitment to a breast cancer charity – all at an accessible price point.

Market Context: The Rise of Cowboy-Inspired Wines

Red wine blends have surged in popularity over the past decade, and Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red rides this trend with a unique Western twist. This wine hails from Paso Robles, California – a region affectionately nicknamed “Cowboy Wine Country” for its ranching heritage and bold, robust wines. In a market saturated with elegant labels and Old-World chateaux, Purple Cowboy stands out by embracing cowboy imagery and lore. The result is a blend that appeals not only to wine enthusiasts seeking rich flavor, but also to those drawn to an authentic Americana story in their glass. By combining quality winemaking with a dash of Wild West charm, Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red has carved out a niche in the competitive California wine landscape.

Purple Cowboy’s Paso Robles Roots

Originating in Paso Robles on California’s Central Coast, Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red is deeply connected to the region’s winemaking traditions. Paso Robles is known for warm days, cool nights, and a spirit of rugged individualism – much like the cowboys it celebrates. This climate yields grapes with concentrated flavors and ample structure, perfect for crafting hearty red blends. The founders of Purple Cowboy chose Paso Robles not just for quality grape growing, but also for its cowboy culture. The brand’s name itself is inspired by local lore: winemakers and rodeo riders who drank so much dark red wine that their teeth turned purple, yet kept on riding. This playful legend, printed on the bottle label as “The Legend of the Purple Cowboy,” ties the wine to its regional roots and gives a nod to those trailblazing spirits of the West.

A Cause-Driven Wine Label

Beyond its regional heritage, Purple Cowboy is also a wine with a mission. It was founded by a Napa/Sonoma wine entrepreneur (and rodeo enthusiast) who is a breast cancer survivor, and from the beginning the brand has been linked to the “Tough Enough To Wear Pink” campaign. In fact, 100% of Purple Cowboy’s profits are donated to this breast cancer awareness and research initiative. Since 2004, sales of Purple Cowboy wines have helped raise over $35 million to support breast cancer charities and families facing the disease. Every bottle of Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red you purchase isn’t just a treat for yourself – it also contributes to a worthy cause. This unique angle has endeared the brand to many wine lovers who appreciate that their enjoyable pour doubles as a philanthropic act. It’s not often you find a wine that pairs well with barbecue and also supports a breast cancer fundraiser!

Taste & Character of Tenacious Red

Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red lives up to its name with a tenacious, gutsy flavor profile. As a blend crafted in cowboy country, it emphasizes boldness and richness in every sip. This is a wine made for those who love full-bodied reds with plenty of character. On pouring a glass, you’ll immediately notice the deep, inky garnet color – a hint that you’re in for a mouth-filling experience. Despite its muscular persona, Tenacious Red also has a smooth, approachable side that makes it easy to enjoy whether you’re a seasoned wine aficionado or just starting to explore red blends. Let’s break down what’s inside this intriguing bottle and what you can expect when you uncork it.

Grape Composition & Winemaking

The exact blend of Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red can vary by vintage, but it typically features a mix of grape varieties that thrive in Paso Robles. Key components often include Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah (or Shiraz) as the backbone, providing structure, dark fruit, and spice. In some years, the blend is rounded out with other robust grapes like Petite Sirah, Malbec, or Tempranillo to add complexity. This multi-varietal approach is common in Paso Robles, where winemakers have access to an array of grape types and aren’t afraid to blend them for maximum flavor. The winemaking style emphasizes fruit-forward expression and a full body. Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness to ensure rich flavors and then fermented and aged in a way that softens tannins while preserving intensity. Oak aging (often in American oak barrels) may be used judiciously to impart subtle vanilla or cocoa notes without overpowering the fruit. The result is a carefully crafted blend that embodies the warm, sun-soaked vineyards of its origin.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red greets you with vibrant aromas of ripe berries and a hint of something intriguingly sweet-spiced. Many tasters pick up **crushed red berries and black cherries** as the primary scents, sometimes accompanied by a subtle note of cola or sassafras. As you swirl and sniff, you might also detect **cinnamon and cocoa** in the background – imagine the smell of a cherry pie cooling next to a cup of hot cocoa. These inviting aromas set the stage for the main event: the flavor.

Take a sip, and bold **berry flavors** burst onto your palate. Think juicy **blackberry, plum, and blueberry** jam, giving a rich sweetness (though the wine is dry) and fruit intensity up front. In the mid-palate, layers of **spice and earth** start to unfold. You may notice a dash of **cinnamon, vanilla, or cola-like sweetness** weaving through the fruit, a signature of the oak influence and ripe grapes. There’s also a touch of **leathery, smoky earthiness** – a nod to the wine’s Paso Robles terroir and cowboy soul.

The finish is long and warming. As the fruit subsides, gentle **tannins** make themselves known, often described as a fine dusting of **cocoa powder** on the tongue. These tannins give structure without harshness, making for a finish that is firm yet smooth. A hint of dark chocolate or espresso might linger after you swallow, balancing the wine’s fruity start with a dry, slightly savory end. With an alcohol content around 13.5–14% ABV, Tenacious Red has a pleasant warmth that carries those flavors through a satisfying finish. Overall, the tasting experience is one of robust flavors delivered in a surprisingly smooth package – a true testament to cowboy tenacity meeting skilled winemaking.

How Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red Compares

In a world full of red wines, you might wonder how Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red stacks up against other options. Let’s compare this wine both to its sibling in the Purple Cowboy lineup and to some similar red blends from its region and price range. These comparisons will highlight what makes Tenacious Red unique and help you decide if it’s the right fit for your palate.

Compared to Trail Boss Cabernet

Purple Cowboy produces more than one wine – another notable bottle from the brand is the Purple Cowboy “Trail Boss” Cabernet Sauvignon. If you’ve tried Trail Boss Cab or are choosing between the two, here’s what to expect from each:

• Grape Composition: Trail Boss is a varietal Cabernet Sauvignon, so it’s all Cab, whereas Tenacious Red is a blend of multiple grapes. This means Trail Boss focuses on the pure character of Cab (think blackcurrant, oak, and firm tannins) while Tenacious Red offers a medley of flavors from its blend (more mixed berries and spice).
• Flavor Profile: Trail Boss Cabernet tends to be bold with structured tannins, classic cassis (dark currant) flavors, and more prominent oak influence (vanilla, toast) since Cab and oak are a classic combo. Tenacious Red, in contrast, is a bit juicier and softer in tannin. It delivers lots of upfront fruit and spice, and its finish, while rich, is a touch smoother and more cocoa-like than the Cab’s drier, firmer finish.
• Body & Intensity: Both wines are full-bodied, but Trail Boss can feel a bit more dense and robust due to Cab’s natural structure. Tenacious Red is full-bodied as well, yet some drinkers find it more approachable, with a rounder mouthfeel. The presence of grapes like Syrah or Petite Sirah in Tenacious Red can add fleshy fruit and softer mid-palate than a straight Cab might have.
• Occasion: If you’re grilling steaks or in the mood for a classic steakhouse-style wine, Trail Boss Cabernet fits the bill perfectly with its hearty, tannic profile. If you’re doing barbecue ribs, spicy sausages, or a casual potluck, Tenacious Red’s fruit-forward, slightly sweeter spice profile might shine. It’s a bit more of an all-rounder when it comes to pleasing a crowd with varied tastes, thanks to that blend’s balance.

In summary, Purple Cowboy Trail Boss Cab is the choice for Cab lovers who want a single-varietal expression with a cowboy kick, whereas Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red offers a more playful blend of grapes that results in a fruitier, spiced ride. Both share the brand’s western charm and charity-driven ethos, so you can’t go wrong – it just comes down to whether you prefer the singular boldness of Cabernet or the harmonious blend of Tenacious Red.

Compared to Other Paso Robles Blends

Paso Robles has become famous for its red blends, often combining grapes like Cabernet, Zinfandel, Syrah, and more. How does Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red measure up to some of the other popular red blends from the region?

• Style & Flavor: Many Paso Robles red blends (for example, those from well-known labels like Justin’s blends or Robert Hall, etc.) are big on ripe fruit and oak influence. Tenacious Red definitely fits this regional style with its ripe berry core and hints of vanilla and spice. Where it stands out is the distinctive cola/cinnamon note and cocoa finish – not every red blend has that little twist of cola-spice and chocolaty tannin. It gives Tenacious Red a subtle uniqueness among its peers.
• Sweetness & Balance: Paso blends can sometimes verge on “jammy” (very fruit-sweet on the palate) due to the warm climate fruit. Tenacious Red offers loads of fruit but remains dry. It has a plush mouthfeel without tipping into residual sugar sweetness. If you find some other blends too sweet or heavy, you might appreciate that Tenacious Red’s finish has that cocoa-dry sensation which balances the fruit. It’s crafted to be rich but also balanced enough to pair with food.
• Value Point: Price-wise, Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red is very competitively positioned (often around $12–$15 range per 750ml bottle). Some Paso blends from big-name wineries can command higher prices ($20 and up). Despite its modest price, Tenacious Red doesn’t skimp on quality – it drinks like a wine that could cost more. This strong value proposition is one reason it’s gained a loyal following. It delivers authentic Paso Robles boldness without the higher price tag of some competitors.
• Character & Story: Let’s not forget, Purple Cowboy has that extra layer of narrative – the cowboy imagery and the Tough Enough To Wear Pink cause. While purely flavor-based comparisons matter, the enjoyment of wine can also be enhanced by its story. When you bring a bottle of Tenacious Red to a gathering, you have a fun story to share about the “purple-toothed cowboys” and the charitable cause behind the wine. Most other wines at this price point don’t come with such conversation-worthy background.

In essence, Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red holds its own in the Paso Robles blend arena. It delivers all the lush fruit and body you’d expect from the region, distinguishes itself with a few signature flavor notes and a smoother finish, and often beats the competition on price. Add the unique branding and charity angle, and it’s clear why Tenacious Red resonates with many wine drinkers looking for something a little different yet reliably delicious.

Serving and Pairing Tips

To get the most out of your Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red, consider how you serve it and what you serve it with. Even a rugged wine can benefit from a little care in presentation and pairing. Below are some tips on ideal food matches and serving practices that will let this Paso Robles red shine in its best light.

Perfect Pairings

This wine is practically made for hearty, flavorful foods. The big fruit and spice elements of Tenacious Red complement a variety of robust dishes. Here are a few pairing ideas that bring out the best in both the wine and the food:

• Barbecue & Grilled Meats: Perhaps the ultimate pairing – think smoky barbecue ribs slathered in sauce, char-grilled burgers, or a platter of Texas brisket. The wine’s berry sweetness and spice can mirror a tangy BBQ sauce, and its tannins stand up to rich, fatty cuts of meat. It’s a natural match for anything off the grill.
• Steaks and Burgers: A classic grilled ribeye or a juicy burger topped with cheddar will pair wonderfully. The peppery, herbal touches in the wine (from Syrah or Tempranillo components) will season the meat flavors, while the tannin cleanses the palate from the beef’s richness between bites.
• Chili, Stews & Game: Tenacious Red’s cowboy spirit makes it fitting to serve with a big bowl of chili con carne, beef stew, or even game meats like venison stew or bison short ribs. The wine’s hearty profile won’t be overshadowed by spice or gamey flavors – instead, it’ll provide a fruity counterpoint and a warm finish alongside these dishes.
• Strong Cheeses & Charcuterie: If you prefer sipping without a full meal, try it with a spread of aged cheddar, smoked gouda, or even a blue cheese. Add some cured meats like salami or smoky beef jerky to echo the cowboy theme. The wine’s fruit will pop against salty, savory bites, and its cocoa-like tannins pair surprisingly well with an aged cheese’s nutty finish.
• Vegetarian Options: Not just for carnivores – Tenacious Red can pair with vegetarian fare too, as long as it’s rich and savory. Try it with a fire-roasted eggplant lasagna, a hearty mushroom burger, or barbecue jackfruit sliders. The key is lots of umami and grilled or smoked flavors to match the wine’s intensity.

In short, pair Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red with foods that have bold flavors and a bit of char or spice. You’ll find that the wine’s sweet fruit notes act like a condiment, while its structure refreshes your palate. It’s a versatile partner for any cowboy-inspired cookout or comfort food feast.

Serving Best Practices

How you serve a wine can influence your enjoyment as much as the food pairing. Here are some tips to make sure Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red shows its best side when you pop the cork:

• Temperature: Serve this red at a moderate room temperature, around 60–65°F (16–18°C). If the bottle has been sitting in a warm spot, consider giving it 20 minutes in the fridge before serving. Too warm and the alcohol can taste a bit hot; a slight chill will keep the fruit flavors fresh and the structure firm.
• Breathing: Tenacious Red is enjoyable right out of the bottle, but like many bold reds, it can benefit from a little air. After opening, you might pour it into a decanter or even just an open pitcher about 15–30 minutes before drinking. This short breathing time helps the aromas expand (you’ll notice more of those berry and spice notes coming forward) and allows the tannins to mellow slightly. If you don’t have time to decant, swirling it in the glass will also help “open up” the wine.
• Glassware: Use a decent-sized red wine glass with a broad bowl. This allows you to swirl and release the aromas. A glass that narrows a bit at the top will concentrate those lovely scents of cherry, cinnamon, and cocoa so you can fully enjoy them. You don’t need anything ultra-fancy – just something with enough room to aerate the wine. A standard Cabernet or Syrah glass works great for this blend.
• Storage of Leftovers: If by some chance you don’t finish the bottle (it happens!), cork it up and store it in the refrigerator. Tenacious Red should remain in good shape for about 2–3 days after opening if kept cool with a tight closure. Its bold flavor will hold up overnight, though you might notice the fruit notes softening by day two. To enjoy again, let the leftover wine come closer to room temp and maybe use it for a mid-week burger night.

Following these simple serving tips can really elevate your experience with Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red. Proper temperature and a bit of air will highlight the blend’s smooth integration of flavors. Before you know it, you and your friends will be toasting “Yee-haw!” as you savor this wine at its best.

Buying Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red

Ready to get your hands on a bottle (or two) of this flavorful cowboy-inspired wine? In this section, we’ll cover the practical side: what kind of value you’re getting and how to secure your own supply of Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red. From pricing to availability, here’s what to know when you’re looking to buy.

Price Point & Value

One of the most appealing aspects of Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red is its excellent value for money. Despite the rich taste and thoughtful winemaking behind it, this wine is very affordable. A 750ml bottle is typically priced around $12.99 (give or take a couple dollars depending on the retailer or any sales). In the world of wine, finding a quality red blend in the ~$12–15 range that offers true depth of flavor can be a bit like finding a needle in a haystack. Fortunately, Tenacious Red delivers on quality without breaking the bank.

At this price point, it’s a fantastic “weekday wine” that drinks like a more premium bottle. You can open it casually for a burger night or a Netflix and takeout evening, and it will elevate the experience without causing any buyer’s remorse. It’s also an approachable price for sharing – bring it to a gathering or gift it to a friend, and you’ll impress them with your find that tastes far more expensive than it is. In short, the value ratio here is high: you’re getting a flavorful, well-crafted Paso Robles blend for the cost that often corresponds to much simpler, mass-market wines. Purple Cowboy’s philosophy of giving back might also play a role – perhaps they’d rather keep the wine accessible so more people can enjoy it and support the cause. Whatever the reason, wine shoppers on a budget will be pleased that Tenacious Red offers big bang for the buck.

Availability at Union Wine & Liquors

As a popular California blend, Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red is distributed in many states. You’ll often find it in well-stocked liquor stores, wine shops, and even some supermarkets’ wine sections. For those in the Western New York area (or shopping online within NY), Union Wine & Liquors in Cheektowaga is a convenient source. We proudly carry Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red, usually in plentiful stock. In fact, you can order Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red directly from our online shop here for in-store pickup or local delivery (for those of legal drinking age).

Buying from Union Wine & Liquors not only guarantees you a great price of approximately $12.99 a bottle, but also ensures you’re supporting a local business that takes pride in curating a diverse selection of wines and spirits. If you drop by our store at 2675 Union Road, Cheektowaga, you’ll find Tenacious Red in the California reds section – and our knowledgeable staff would be happy to chat about it or suggest other gems you might enjoy. We often highlight Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red in our promotions, especially during barbecue season or October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month), given the cause it supports.

To sum up, availability is generally very good. Purple Cowboy has national distribution under the umbrella of a larger wine company, so it’s not an obscure bottle. Still, if you want the smoothest experience, come see us at Union Wine & Liquors or click the link above to add it to your cart. We’ll make sure you’re well-stocked with this delightful blend, so you’re always ready to uncork a little cowboy spirit at your next dinner or get-together. Cheers to that!