So I switched gears, instead of the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon I decided to be spontaneous and head over to one of my favorite LCBO’s (Liquor store) and ask the shop’s expert for a recommendation. My usual criteria is: something uncommon (vineyard) for the store, competitively priced ($10 to $35), and something he/she has tasted and enjoyed. I am not looking for them to give me a breakdown of the wine or even a review. Simply I want to know did you or did you not enjoy it. So from this discussion I grabbed two bottles, one of which we are reviewing tonight and I am sipping as I write this.
Bogle Vineyards is an estate just outside of Sacramento California, east of the Napa Valley. It is a family run business that has been making wine (taken from their website) since the late 60’s early 70s. While I enjoy Merlots, I have to be honest that few, if ever leave me gasping for breath. On the few occasions they have done so, it has been at the hands of a California Merlot. This alone leaves me a sucker to grab a good bargoon (bargain folks, bargain!) and give it a whirl. This bottle was priced around $17, in the bargoon realm for sure! On to the tasting!!
On opening my nose caught a rush of fruit, primarily apple and cherry, upon further sniffing the apple remained on my nose (I find it odd as I rarely smell apple on a wine). The first few sips exposed my senses to a full bodied, large tannin Merlot. Without a doubt the apple had disappeared and cherry and oak had risen to the top of the aroma hierarchy. A few sips more and cherry, oak and a hint of blackberry own my palate. That is okay, I like all those! Without a doubt, being a bold style red, you will need to pair this with a traditionally strong meal or cheese. Think lamb, arrabiata pasta or Cheshire cheese, do not be afraid to drink on it’s own as it has enough complexity to keep your mouth happy at a party, on the deck or in the lounge. While nowhere near a “wow” this is a very solid wine and for the price is hard to beat. I am not sure this wine will improve greatly upon cellaring though without a doubt it will change a little. With the low cos it would not be a bad dollar or two to put a few bottles at the back of your cellar if you have the room and open them in a year or four. You should be pleasantly surprised. It is a drink now or keep for 2 to 5 years.
With some though and bearing this wine merits an 85.
Mrs.CWG was out on business so she has no opinion at this time!
