Buenas Ondas Malbec

This wine, which was made with organic grapes from the San Juan region of Argentina, was both spicy and smooth. For $12.99 from Publix, it was about what I would expect for a decent Malbec. It did seem a spicier and with more rich tannins than I usually like, but was also fruity and complex. Since I can get it at the grocery, which was also convenient, I will try this one again. Would be perfect with a steak dinner.

2009 Val de Loire - Reserve Des Vignerans - Saumur Champigny

This was another recommendation from the salesman at Total Wine. It was very, very dry and not quite as smooth as the previous post (Olema). Not as fruity either. More tanins, too. I would say that we should not have had this bottle after the bottle of Olema. That wine was way better than this one and was well worth the five extra dollars (this bottle was $14.00). Not bad, just not great.

2009 Olema Cabernet Sauvignon

When I told the sales guy at Total Wine how I felt about the wine in my previous three posts (loved the French Cabernet Franc, didn't like the Napa Cabernet Franc, liked the Malbec), he highly recommended this Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma. He told me that it had a lot of Cabernet Franc grapes in it and that it was his best wine under the $40. It was $19.99. He was probably right.

This is a very rich tasting wine for being under $20. It is very dark red and is a heavier taste than the previous three wines. But it was also very complex and tasty. Sort of spicy with slight tannin (bitter) after taste. My sister and I both agree that it is incredibly smooth. My sister thought it was oaky, but I disagree - and just to clarify, the label said it was cedar. It had a deep berry undertones and I can't wait for the T-bones to come off the grill. It seems like a perfect match.

2009 Falling Star Malbec

Bought this one today on the $7 closeout aisle at the grocery. I must say, that it is very nice for the price. Smells like berries, with some slight berry undertones. Color is a deep purple, with a smooth taste and not too many tannins. Great pick for a weeknight pasta dinner.

2008 Titus Cabernet Franc

This Napa Valley red was very tasty, but a little bit too Tannin-y for my taste. I found the French Cabernet Franc much smoother and brighter, and for $32.99, I probably won't be trying this one again soon.