Normally, I am wary of reds in this low price range, simply because I've had many that were either boring or without discernible structure; and a boring unstructured (or, as some like to say, "smooth, no-aftertaste") wine, in my book, is far worse than one with many screaming outliers but ample personality...
12.5% alc./vol. Compressed-particle natural-cork closure. Varietal makeup not disclosed.
Clear, medium-garnet colour with a ruby tint, when held against a fluorescent light source. Appetizing, complex nose of raspberry and redcurrant preserves, tightly wound, with a hint of brine and just a slight whiff of oak vanilla. Well balanced and dry, with moderate acidity leading the way. This is met by marvelously pleasant, grippy tannin on the mid-palate, light oak spice, and plenty of cleansing tartness and grip into the finish. Warm, light, dry, appetizing finish.
Wow - and all this for less than eight bucks.
Life is good
