Cocobon Vineyards Red Blend, California

I recently found this unbelievable bargain in a local shop in my neighborhood sitting in a sale bin, Cocobon Vineyards Red Blend. The bottle caught my eye, and I bought one because the name and label intrigued me and hey... I'm glad I did! I bought a case and I'm heading back tonight to buy another. I love this stuff! It's a perfect everyday wine at just under $9 by the case.

It's a velvety blend of 61% Zinfandel, 17% Cabernet Franc, 12% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot and 4% Petite Sirah, definitely a new world red, with fruitiness upfront as a major component, but it also has so much going for it on the nose and palate. I could hardly detect any smoke so I'm guessing it is not barrel aged, at least not for long. It shows aromas of chocolate, vanilla, and very ripe cherries. Rich flavors ring out as cocoa and dark jammy fruits coat your palate. The finish is silky and long for a wine this inexpensive.

Here I thought I discovered something new but with a little Google search I discovered it was a huge seller on the west coast at Trader Joe's stores (where it sold for under $7). They couldn't restock the shelves fast enough. It's produced by Underdog Wines, the makers of Cupcake Wines. Click here to find a location near you.

Argiano Suolo Toscano IGT 2012

Suolo (soil in Italian) is produced lovingly by Argiano from 100% Sangiovese Grosso taken from both the oldest and youngest vines on their estates. Fermentation takes place in temperature controlled tanks using indigenous yeasts, then into French oak casks for 18 months, before being bottled for a year and released.

Colors are ruby red, while the nose shows sweet floral notes set against coffee
and vibrant honey-covered dark fruits, the palate displays a complexity of sweet smoked ripe cherries, exotic earthy bramble, balsamic, and black pepper. Dark fruits brood their way through to a delicious lengthy finish.