Although the humidity is just shy of being able to cause spontaneous combustion, sooner or later, it’s going to cool off; I’m hoping for sooner. That said, I’d like to take a look at some Cabs and a Cab blend that I think drink better than they cost. In other words, a real value.
Z. Alexander Brown 2016 Uncaged, Cabernet Sauvignon, California, ($19.99) is made by Zac Brown and it proves that he’s very capable of making more than just music. For this, his Uncaged series, he teamed up with the resources of Delicato Family Wines and Napa Valley Winemaker John Killebrew. As a winemaker, John is able to stay immersed in nature. Working in partnership with Zac and accessing the Delicato’s superb quality grapes he’s able to create wines with true character and style that offer a lot for a little. The grapes for this 2016 Cab were sourced from Mendocino County, Lodi and from the Delicato Family’s own San Bernabe Vineyard. The final blend for this boldly flavored wine was thoughtfully crafted by Zac and John after multiple hands-on tastings and blending sessions featuring a selection of the best lots of the vintage. The wine unfolds with rich aromas of black cherry, mocha and sweet toasted oak notes. Bold tannins frame a powerful mid-palate layered with mouth-filling flavors of black cherry and milk chocolate. Smooth and balanced, an elegant finesse defines the long and lingering finish.
In much the same way, Trefethen 2015 Double T Red Blend, Napa Valley, ($22.99) is a wine whose quality will pleasantly surprise you. Trefethen Vineyards is world famous for their extraordinary estate Cabernet from their vineyard in the Oak Knoll region of Napa Valley. Much like a second label Bordeaux, the Double T label was launched to use the estate fruit that doesn’t make it into the main bottling. Grapes for this Double T Red come from the very same estate vineyard but some from the young vines and some are blending varietals that they have more of than they need, but all of it is prime thanks to their exceptional location at the cool end of Napa Valley, and the outstanding vintage. This blend is 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Malbec, 15% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc. All of the lots are vinified separately, and the wine aged 15 months. Malbec brings plush fruit characters and a hint of floral notes, with Cabernet Sauvignon providing the backbone, while Merlot adds a lively spice and herbal character. Cabernet Franc provides finesse and a peppery perfume and Petit Verdot adds color and structure. A really solid value for the money!
So, if you’re welcoming a new child (or, grandchild, which there’s been a rash of around here!), or if it’s a special anniversary, make it even more so with some Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, 2014 , ($75.99).Yet another spectacular Cabernet from Silver Oak, the 2014 will have you at hello with its velvety, smooth full body, raspberry notes, sultry spice and distinctly earthy character. Enjoy your first luscious glass with mint pasta parcels filled with spicy lamb sausage. You can thank us later… An easier starter to go with your first few sips are tiny beef sliders with caramelized onions. The solid nature of this Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet warrants meaty fare such as lamb, beef and game. Rabbit cooked with peas, pancetta and carrots will pair beautifully with this garnet Cab. Crisp-roasted duck with broccoli rabe, roasted potatoes and skinny French haricots will show off this Silver Oak’s lovely earthiness. Slightly more conventional, we love the lasting tannins of this Alexander Valley nectar with grilled beef sirloin and spinach salad dressed with a mushroom vinaigrette. You won’t want this meal to come to a close, so we say bring out the dark chocolate, hazelnut cake and make sure everyone gets a scoop of dense hazelnut gelato on their portion. For those of you who prefer savory endings, open another bottle to go with a potent Gorgonzola. Buckle up everyone, you are going to love this ride!
Alright, since it’s probably still as hot as the Sox, (a good hot!), here’s one to cool off with. Frenzy Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand, ($17.99). As anyone who loves wine knows, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir wines are pretty hard to beat and this one is no exception. Wine Spectator says: “Succulent mango, melon and tangerine flavors are fleshy and lush, with dried floral hints and a touch of green tea on the finish.”, while Winery writes: “Intensely aromatic and lively with flavors of passionfruit and guava underpinned with aromas of fresh herbs and blackcurrant, this is a great wine to enjoy as an aperitif, or match with seafoods. The palate is vibrant with zingy fruit that is balanced with a long, crisp mineral finish.” Who am I to argue?
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