'06 Tobin James Tempranillo

[Innkeeper]

2006 Tobin James, James Gang Reserve, Arroyo Grande Valley, Tempranillo ($38.00, but came it the fall ’08 club shipment). Alcohol level: 14.6%.

No doubt that this is a New World wine; it is great, but doesn’t taste like anything from Spain. It comes from a handful of California vineyards. It has a very dark color, and gives intense fruit on the tongue and upfront, with more fruit and minerals, licorice and mocha coursing the palate. It gave a wonder finish including hints of chocolate and vanilla.

We matched it with our Saturday night rib eye steak, grilled over charcoal and mesquite chips; corn-on-the-cob, and a terrific salad with lemon and grape oil dressing. Thank you God.