2006 Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon
VERDICT: "Go for it"
Cabernet Sauvignon, 14.1% alc.
$8.99
www.santarita.com
Chile is all about hidden value. While Argentina, Portugal and others are getting recent glory and headlines, look to Chile for some wine deals.
Case in point: this Cab from Santa Rita. I picked this one up at Costco for only $8.99. Why not give it a shot? My expectations were low, but I was impressed with this Reserva, estate grown from the Maipo Valley region of Chile.
I would not be surprised if sometime we see more Chilean wines grab headlines. Meantime, perhaps that’s why Santa Rita encloses this wine in an eye-catching black sleeve — “look at me!”
What I really enjoy about this one is the predominant earthiness, plus a laid back, smoothness that is a nice change-up from the bolder Napa Cabs (which I love). This one has all the characteristics you’d normall experience including blackberry, plum with some nice vanilla and spices on the finish.
If you’re looking for that killer, long, rich finish look elsewhere, but for an easy drinking, smooth Cab at an amazing price, then check out your local Costco for this one.