We are all freaked out by the economy and now is a good time to tighten our belts. Wine can certainly become a significant expense, and I've found that I am searching for bargains to save a little. This has actually not been a negative thing. I found out that I was in a wine "rut" and my bargain hunting has actually rooted out some quality wines that I normally would not have tried. If you discover an excellent wine at a friendly price, please share it here!
Chilean Cab- Casa Lapostolle $10.99
COLOR-dark; NOSE-plum component; little soil action; TASTE-loaded with great red currant flavor; nice body; nice complexity & polish; little oak; nice balance; black & red fruit; wood chips; soil; nicely integrated; nice 2nd & 3rd tier flavors on the palate; long finish w/ some dryness; reminds me of $20-$30 Cabs; nice blackberry jam; good quality...
Cab-Walnut Crest $6.99
COLOR-dark; NOSE-sour cherry meets petrol; hint of fake bacon; forest floor; nice for $6 wine; TASTE-better than I expected; nice balance; good fruit; alcohol is under control; some nice subtle sour cherry flavors; little bit of carrot top; the fruit is pretty pure; very serviceable
I would also like to hear suggestions! I need to cut back on my favorite oaky, buttery, golden Chardonnays--La Crema, Toasted Head, Simi--in favor of something less expensive. Help!
Permalink Reply by Jo on November 10, 2008 at 8:31am
Elm Tree Chardonnay, Mendoza Argentina - 6.99
I'm not even usually a Chardonnay fan, but this is a lovely little Chard that can be enjoyed as a cocktail wine, but also had enough structure to stand up to food. Has just a light oak flavor balanced with some nice fruit forwardness. It would be great with grilled chicken, cheese, winter squash soups as well.