WTN: BTG Selections

[David M. Bueker]

Business trip, so not the usual cellar selections.

2013 Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma)
Dark red/purple color and a dark red/purple smell of cherry/berry fruit with notable oak spice and a medium weight mouthfeel. Quite drinkable if unexciting. ($10 BTG)

2012 Catena Zapata Malbec High Mountain Vines (Mendoza)
Softer than the Martini. More of an overripe fruit character, with clear blackberry aromas and flavors. Not showing the oak influence of the Martini. ($11 BTG)

I've always had a preference for the Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa). It seems to have a bit more structure and sells in the $15-17 range in local wine stores.

[David M. Bueker]

Me too. I always see the Sonoma as BTG, likely because of the lower price point.