This week we’ll review a couple of reds, both of which we like. One is clearly superior in my mind though, and is basically the same price. You may think differently, and probably will, but that’s the beauty of wine.
Here they are:
Wine: 2010 Estancia Cabernet Sauvignon
Winery Location: Paso Robles, California
Tasted By: Neil & Cheri Date: August 2013
Tasting Notes: This is deep red/purple, with rich fruit aromas and nice fruit on the palate as well. It’s medium bodied and brings a nice array of classic cabernet flavors. The red currant seemed to stand out. It has good length and a nice finish. It’s not great, it’s not unusual, and not really memorable, but it’s generally a quality bottle and a pretty good value.
Price Point – $10
Would We Buy It? – Yes, but we wouldn’t go out of our way. Estancia is generally always good and not great. For us the next bottle has it all over this one in terms of value. Still, you’re not going to go far wrong with the Estancia cab.
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Wine: 2010 Columbia Crest H3 Cabernet Sauvignon
Winery Location: Horse Heaven Hills AVA, Washington State
Tasted By: Neil & Cheri Date: August 2013
Tasting Notes: We tried this while on vacation in Winston Salem, NC, visiting our daughter. Cheri wanted a glass of Cabernet at the hotel bar so we picked this one. When I tasted it I got one also. We drank it again the next night and I will be putting some down in the cellar. It’s deep purple/red with a blast of fruit and some floral on the nose. I think it’s medium+ in body, but not quite full. It’s got good mouth coating fruit on the palate and the berry flavors are pretty awesome. There’s some nice tannin at the end and a very long finish. This just all comes together into one of those beautiful yummy moments. I think it’s a steal and one of the best wines in it’s price range I’ve had. We’ll be trying the 2011 as well to see if it caries over to that vintage. Wine-searcher says it’s average rating is 88. Wine Spectator gave it 90. We’re siding with Wine Spectator on this one – it’s really good.
Price Point – ~$12
Would We Buy It? – We would and we will as soon as I find some. This is a screaming value and is just a delicious bottle of Cabernet.
There you go. Try them both, but definitely try the H3 Cabernet – it’s one to remember and buy by the case.
A votre sante!
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