2000 Blackstone

[hotwine]

This stuff is usually $11-$12 locally, but found it for $7.99 at Costco. Didn't know what to expect at that price, but it opened with raspberries on the nose and tongue tip, then black currants across the palate, with a rather short finish. Served with oak-grilled sirloins, oven fries, spinach salad. 13% ABV. Nice enough for a bargain Cab, but any sense of Napa terroir has been washed out by willy-nilly blending of grapes from all over the state. I'll probably buy more for handy stock at the discounted price.

[Innkeeper]

Glad to hear that there is still some nice approachable on release American Cabernet around. Used to rely on L.M. Martini, until Roberto proferred the Crow Canyon last year. I think the wizards of Oz are doing a much job of it. Enjoyed another 2000 Bleasdale 'Mulberry Tree' last night with grillpanned Black Angus boneless sirloin. At $15, it is much more expensive, but it does deliver full varietal character in an open wine once I glug, glug it into a decanter.

[hotwine]

Hit the spot last night with sirloin, corn and salad, after a 10K charity walk along the "Mission Trail" in 50-degree drizzle & fog. Glug, glug. Definitely one to keep on hand.