Drink with Ease…

Last weekend, I tried a Cabernet suggested by my sister that’s both light on  the palate… and light on the wallet.   A very nice combination as it turns out! The wine was the 2006 Columbia Crest Two Vines Cabernet Sauvignon.  It’s a well-balanced, light red that went marvelously with a some crudites and chocolate.  Yes, you read that right.  I often have veggies and chocolate in close succession on a regular basis… I’m a girl, what can I say? 

The Basics:
Vineyards: Washington State
Harvest Date: October 26, 2006
Fermentation: 6-10 days on skins
Alcohol: 13.4%

As crass as it might sound, what’s really surprising in this Carmine-red (luscious red) wine is that there is that much alcohol content to it.  I mostly tasted berry- a bit of blueberry, blackberry and a hint of cocoa comes out especially if you sip the wine and breathe out through your nose.  Ok, that sounds ridiculous, but I swear!  It’s a great way to get a fuller taste of the wine- try it!  (I’m willing to admit I might have been smelling a little of the chocolate I’d been eating, but I’m fairly certain it was the wine…).

I think this is a really pleasant wine.  I’d be tempted to have this as a table wine- for generic purposes.  It doesn’t stand out much on its own but it complements flavors nicely.  I had my veggie platter with some spicy Jalapeno hummus (local and delicious!) and the wine was smooth and easy, not overpowering or underwhelming even next to such a strong flavor.  So, I’d think this would be perfect for something hearty, rather than a delicate dish: a summer steak salad, an autumn corn chowder or even a winter stew.  (I think reds are always nice with chocolate, so that’s a safe bet, too.  If you’re me, anyway.)

JuliaUncorked Says: 7/10

Upcoming: Wine tasting Wednesday!  I’m so excited to be going to an Organic/Biodynamic Wine tasting hosted by Gordon’s Fine Wine and Culinary Center.  Should be delicious and informative.  W00t!