Saturday, May 17, 2008

Avalon California Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

Even though this red wine from California is labeled Cabernet Sauvignon, upon further research I found that it is in fact a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Syrah, 4% Merlot and 1% Tempranillo. Aged for 8 months in French and American oak barrels, it has smoke and cedar aromas with blueberry, plum, cherries and a hint of chocolate. On the finish there is a spice and vanilla on the palate. This is a decent every day Cab and can be found in the $8 range. 13.5% alcohol.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

This percentage thing is weird Cali stuff ain't it. I can't figure out how I feel about it. On the one hand it is nice to have the freedom to blend what you want to get the right flavor profile and balance but on the other hand why don't they just tell us what is in the bottle. I understand this is happens in Italy but in small percentages (Brunello is officially a whole different story) but the rule that one only has to have 78% of one varietal to be labeled that single varietal is sometimes a bit of a jip for me. I mean to each his or her own but sometimes it feels like the producer is more interested in marketing than proudly boasting a wonderful blend. I mean they can be very good these, "blends" why not flaunt what they are? Sorry Dave, I'll jump down from my soap box now I was just thinking out loud. I gotta try this valued Cab. Looks like my price range.

EvWg