Wine Steal of the Week: 2021 Cattoo Cabernet Sauvignon

 Wine Steal of the Week: 2021 Cattoo Cabernet Sauvignon

Back in Paso Robles – Let’s Get It! 🍷

What’s up, wine lovers? We’re back in Paso Robles, and you know what that means—it’s time for another Wine Steal of the Week! Every Friday, I bring you a bottle under $20 that punches above its weight class, and this week’s pick is 2021 Cattoo Cabernet Sauvignon by Sharon Weeks.

To checkout A winebook for the Wine-lovers and WinO's out there, click here and enjoy, Cheers!

Let’s dive in! 🍷🔥

First Impressions

Right off the bat, I’ve got to say—I love the name Cattoo! It’s a mix of “cat” and “tattoos,” and while I’m not the biggest cat person, I dig the creativity. The label is eye-catching too, adding a fun edge to the bottle. Now, let’s get into the real deal—the wine itself.

On the Nose 👃

The aroma is coming through strong with:

Blackberry & blueberry – juicy and rich

Black cracked pepper – adds some spice

Cigar box & old leather – giving that aged, earthy vibe

Hazelnut & cacao (50%) – a mix of nuttiness and chocolate

Nutmeg – subtle spice

Wet soil – classic for Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon

Eucalyptus & green herbal notes – bringing freshness

I just opened this bottle, so I expect it to evolve as it breathes. But so far, we’re off to a great start!

On the Palate 🍇

Taking a sip, this wine delivers big flavors with great balance:

Full-bodied with a lush mouthfeel

Tannins: Medium-plus

Acidity: Medium, almost medium-plus (unexpected for a Cab!)

Finish: Long, smooth, and satisfying

As for flavors, it kicks off with blackberry and blueberry, then transitions into tobacco, chocolate, and nutmeg. The finish brings out black pepper and eucalyptus, making this a layered and complex wine.

The Final Verdict 🎯

This Cabernet Sauvignon is a steal! I’m giving it a solid 90 points. And here’s the kicker—I found this at Grocery Outlet for just $6.99! At that price, it’s a no-brainer case buy. If you can get your hands on it, don’t hesitate!

Question of the Week ❓

Paso Robles is packed with amazing wineries. What’s your favorite label from Paso? Drop your recommendations in the comments—I’d love to review them!

Enjoy your weekend, and as always… Cheers! 🍷🥂

To checkout A winebook for the Wine-lovers and WinO's out there, click here and enjoy, Cheers!

What’s The Best Bargain Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma?

🍷 Wine Steal of the Week: 2022 Valley of the Moon Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Welcome back, wine lovers! This week, we’re in Sonoma County, sipping on a Cabernet Sauvignon that delivers serious quality for an unbeatable price. If you’re looking for a red that punches above its weight class, this one’s for you. Let’s dive in!

🍇 The Wine: 2022Valley of the Moon Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Region: Sonoma County, CA

Varietal: Primarily Cabernet Sauvignon

Price Range: $9.99 – $12.99

Where to Find It: Grocery Outlet & select retailers

To checkout A winebook for the Wine-lovers and WinO's out there, click here and enjoy, Cheers!

🛎️ First Impressions

Right out of the bottle, this wine sets the tone with bold, dark fruit aromas and rich, earthy undertones. Valley of the Moon is a well-known name in Sonoma, producing wines that consistently offer great value.

🍷 Tasting Notes

👃 On the Nose

Black Currant (bold and ripe)

Blackberry & Blueberry (juicy and fresh)

Leather & Cigar Box (adds depth and complexity)

Anise (Black Licorice), Coffee Grounds, Wet Soil

Cedar, Black Pepper, Nutmeg

👅 On the Palate

Mouthfeel: Medium-plus to full-bodied with a long, lingering finish

Tannins: Medium-plus to high (suggesting ageability)

Acidity: Medium-minus

Fruit Forward: Blackberry, black cherry, and blackcurrant

Mid-Palate: Earthy notes, leather, and subtle spice

Finish: Black tea, vanilla spice, and a touch of nutmeg

⭐ Final Score: 90 Points

Initially, I had this wine at 89+, but after tasting it further and realizing its ageability, I had to bump it up to a solid 90. You don’t often find a cellar-worthy wine at this price point, making it a steal of the week!

🏆 Why It’s a Steal

At $9.99 – $12.99, this Cabernet Sauvignon easily drinks like a $25+ bottle. Its balance, structure, and long finish make it a fantastic addition to any wine lover’s collection.

🍷 Question of the Day

💬 What’s the best bargain wine label from Sonoma?

To checkout A winebook for the Wine-lovers and WinO's out there, click here and enjoy, Cheers!

Drop your picks in the comments! Until next time—cheers, and happy weekend! 🥂

A Blend That Surprises and Challenges - Wine Steal Of The Week

 

Wine Steal of the Week: Willunga Red Blend (Non-Vintage)

A Blend That Surprises and Challenges

Wine Steal of the Week: Willunga Red Blend, Non-Vintage

Looking for a wine that delivers big flavor without breaking the bank? This week, I’m diving into the Willunga Red Blend (non-vintage), a surprising grocery outlet find for just $4.99! Here’s my take on what this blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and a few other grapes brings to the table.

First Impressions: The Nose

From the first sniff, this wine bursts with vibrant red fruit notes. Think ripe raspberries (stems included) and cherries. There’s a unique woodsy warmth here, reminiscent of a sun-kissed Redwood forest on a hot day — earthy, slightly pungent, and intriguing. Add in hints of white pepper, nutmeg, cedar, and aged leather, and you’ve got a complex aromatic profile that’s worth savoring.

To checkout A winebook for the Wine-lovers and WinO's out there, click here and enjoy, Cheers!

Tasting Notes: The Structure

Let’s break it down:

• Body: Medium-bodied with a solid mouthfeel.

• Acidity: Medium to medium-plus. Balanced and refreshing.

• Tannins: Medium, contributing a gentle dryness on the palate.

• Finish: Here’s where things get interesting. The wine starts strong with well-structured flavors, but as it hits the final stretch, it loses some cohesion. Think of someone nailing a networking event, only to fumble in the last 30 minutes! Like in most things, you must finish Strong!

Flavor Profile: Fruit and Spice

This red blend leads with forward red fruit flavors — raspberries and cherries dominate. The mid-palate introduces nutmeg, cedar, and a touch of toasted oak, adding depth and intrigue. While the finish is short-lived and slightly scattered, the upfront flavors are undeniably enjoyable.

- For Amazing Pairing Ideas, Check Out "It's A Vibe: A Food & Wine Experience", Cheers!

Pairing Suggestions

While the Willunga Red Blend might not make your “special occasion” list, it’s an excellent choice for casual gatherings. Pair it with:

• Barbecue Favorites: This wine complements juicy burgers, smoky ribs, and grilled veggies beautifully.

• Comfort Foods: Try it with a hearty pizza or lasagna for a cozy night in.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $4.99, this wine punches well above its weight class. While it’s not perfect, it offers solid value for the price. I’m giving it 87 points — a respectable score for a budget-friendly bottle. If you’re a fan of medium-bodied reds with a fruit-forward profile, this one’s worth a try.

Question of the Week

What’s your favorite wine region in Australia? I’m eager to explore more Australian wines, so drop your recommendations in the comments below!

Until next time, cheers! 🍷

True Oak Napa Valley 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon: A Cozy Cold-Day Companion

 

True Oak Napa Valley 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon: A Cozy Cold-Day Companion

When the temperature drops, nothing says comfort like a rich, full-bodied wine. Today, we’re diving into the True Oak Napa Valley 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, a textbook example of Napa Valley winemaking at its finest.

Let’s explore this wine together and see what it brings to the table (or your glass).

To checkout A winebook for the Wine-lovers and WinO's out there, click here and enjoy, Cheers!

First Impressions: On the Nose

From the moment I opened this bottle, the aromas painted a vibrant picture. The nose offered:

• Black cherry and blackcurrant: Juicy and inviting.
• Nutmeg and cassis: Adding a layer of spice and depth.
• Dual leather notes: Both new-car freshness and the comforting earthiness of aged leather.
• Vanilla bean and wet soil: A unique combination that highlights Napa’s sunlit terroir.

The wet soil and mineral undertones instantly reminded me of Bordeaux itself, but Napa’s hallmark ripeness shines through in the fruit-forward aromas.

Tasting Notes: Does It Deliver?

On the palate, the True Oak Cabernet Sauvignon is bold, structured, and balanced. Here’s a breakdown:

• Body: Full-bodied with a velvety mouthfeel.
• Tannins: Medium-plus intensity—present but approachable.
• Fruit: Black cherry, blackberry, cassis, and blackcurrant dominate upfront.
• Earth & Spice: A rich mid-palate introduces earthy soil and stony minerality, with hints of nutmeg and tobacco.
• Finish: Long and drying, with lingering notes of black tea and a touch of red raspberry.

This wine feels like an old-school Napa cab—robust, age-worthy, and refined. With an alcohol content of 13.5%, it’s restrained yet powerful, making it a perfect pairing for hearty meals or a "thought-provoking" solo sip.

- For Amazing Pairing Ideas, Check Out "It's A Vibe: A Food & Wine Experience", Cheers!

The Steal of the Week

Here’s the Steal: I purchased this bottle for just $6.99 at Grocery Outlet. A Napa Valley Cabernet of this caliber at such a price is rare, making it a must-try for wine lovers.

Wine Wisdom: My Go-To Cold-Day Wines

Cold weather calls for wines that envelop you like a warm blanket. My favorites? Big, bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, or even a robust Malbec. These wines have the structure and warmth to stand up to the chill and deliver comfort in every sip.

So, here’s my question for you:
What’s your favorite wine for a cold day?

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FAQs

1. What foods pair well with the True Oak 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like braised short ribs, grilled steak, or mushroom risotto. Its balance of fruit and earthiness complements rich, savory flavors.

2. How long can I age this wine?
While drinkable now, the True Oak 2019 shows potential for aging. Store it for 3–5 more years to soften the tannins and develop deeper complexity.

3. Where can I find this wine?
I found this gem at Grocery Outlet for $6.99. Availability may vary, so check local outlets or similar retailers for stock.

Cheers to finding your perfect cold-day wine! Let me know what keeps you cozy during the winter months.

Wine Steal of the Week: Carolina Reserva Carmenere 2019

 

Wine Steal of the Week: Carolina Reserva Carmenere 2019

Today, we're traveling to Chile and diving into one of my all-time favorite grapes: Carmenere. This week's feature is the Carolina Reserva Carmenere 2019, a wine that's not only delicious but also an incredible value at just $5.99 from Grocery Outlet. Let’s uncork this hidden gem and explore its story, flavors, and perfect food pairings.

- Buy Fruit In Glass: Wine Myths, Facts & Opinions for more about Wines From Portugal, and other Hot wine regions, Cheers!

The Story Behind Carmenere

Carmenere’s history is as intriguing as its flavor profile. Originally a Bordeaux grape, it was thought to be lost after the phylloxera outbreak in the 1800s. However, it had unknowingly found a new home in Chile, where it was misidentified as Merlot for decades. It wasn’t until the 1990s that DNA testing revealed its true identity, reclaiming Carmenere as the “missing grape of Bordeaux.” This story alone is enough to make any wine lover appreciate this varietal even more.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, the Carolina Reserva Carmenere 2019 offers a complex bouquet of:

• Blackberry

• Purple plums

• Blueberries

• Herbal greens, including hints of mint and eucalyptus

• Dark chocolate with a high cacao content

• Cardamom and white pepper

• Blackcurrant and black tea

When tasting, these aromas translate beautifully onto the palate. The wine is medium-plus in body with approachable, slightly edgy tannins. It’s well-balanced and boasts a long, complex finish. The flavor journey begins with rich fruit—plums, blackberries, and blueberries—before transitioning to herbal notes and earthy undertones. The finish pops with spice, cardamom, and a touch of black tea. There’s even a subtle stemmy quality that adds an extra layer of depth.

Food Pairings

This Carmenere’s versatility makes it an excellent companion for a variety of dishes. Here are my top recommendations:

• Pork chops

• New York steak

• Pot roast

• Thanksgiving turkey

• Game meats

Its balance and complexity also make it a standout choice for holiday dinners or cozy meals at home.

- For Amazing Pairing Ideas, Check Out "It's A Vibe: A Food & Wine Experience", Cheers!

Final Thoughts

This wine earns a solid 89+ points from me. While it might not quite reach the lofty 91 points awarded by Wine Enthusiast, its quality and complexity are undeniable, especially at such an affordable price. For just $5.99, this is a steal that’s hard to beat. If you’re a fan of Carmenere or just curious to try something new, I highly recommend picking up a bottle.

Question of the Week

Have you ever tried Carmenere before? If so, what’s your favorite label? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Until next time, cheers and happy sipping! 🍷

 

Wine Steal of the Week 259 – Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon

Welcome to Wine Steal of the Week, where we hunt down wines under $20 that offer exceptional value! This week's feature is a bold red from Paso Robles—a region celebrated for its sun-drenched vineyards and diverse wine offerings. But does this bottle deliver on its promise? Let’s find out.

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The Wine: Prominent Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

• Region: Paso Robles, California
• Price: $5.99 (Grocery Outlet)

Paso Robles has built a solid reputation for producing fantastic wines, but its Cabernet Sauvignon can be hit or miss for me. This particular bottle intrigued me with its unbeatable price tag and its promise of robust flavors.

The rolling vineyards of Paso Robles, renowned for their sun-drenched Cabs.

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Tasting Notes

Nose:
The aroma is layered and complex, featuring:

• Black cherry
• Cedar box
• Plum
• Wet stone
• Eucalyptus
• Black tea

Palate:
On tasting, the wine presents a medium-plus body, balanced acidity, and medium-plus tannins.

• Initial Flavors: Tart black cherry and blackcurrant take the lead.
• Mid-Palate: The wine shows some greenness, which disrupts its overall flow.
• Finish: A long yet watery finish, where the tannins overpower the structure.

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Does Paso Robles Make Good Cabernet Sauvignon?

Absolutely, Paso Robles excels in crafting bold, fruit-forward Cabernets. However, like any region, quality can vary depending on the producer and price point. At just $5.99, this bottle offers a fascinating glimpse into the Paso Robles experience, albeit with some noticeable shortcomings.

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Final Thoughts and Score

While this Cabernet Sauvignon is drinkable and intriguing at first, its lack of cohesion on the palate and weak finish make it a one-time experiment.

Score: 87 points – Not a rebuy, but at this price, it's worth trying for adventurous drinkers.

A $5.99 Cabernet Sauvignon experiment from Paso Robles.

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FAQ

1. What makes Paso Robles unique for winemaking?
Paso Robles benefits from a warm climate, diverse soils, and a long growing season, ideal for producing bold and fruit-forward wines like Cabernet Sauvignon.

2. Is this wine good for pairing?
Despite its flaws, the upfront fruit and acidity make it decent for casual pairings like burgers or BBQ.

3. Would you recommend it?
For $5.99, it's a budget-friendly choice for adventurous wine lovers, but don’t expect perfection.

Do you have a favorite Paso Robles wine? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know what you'd like us to review next!

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Stay tuned for more value-packed wine recommendations on Wine Steal of the Week!

 

What's Your Opinion On Portuguese Wines? | Wine Guide

What's your opinion on Portuguese wines? Portugal's wines are rich and varied. They offer unique flavors and experiences. One thing to be considered when thinking of Portuguese wines is how much value they tend to offer said 'wine experiences'.

A $6.99 bottle of wine can be as good as expensive ones. Portugal's wines are diverse and of high quality. This changes what we think of cheap reds.

Portuguese wines are known for being affordable yet delicious. They are made by top wineries at good prices. It's worth learning more about them.

ed by lush green vineyards under a bright blue sky, featuring an assortment of elegant Portuguese wine bottles with unique labels, accompanied by sizzling barbeque and mouth-watering juicy burgers on vintage plates, casting soft shadows in the warm sunlight, evoking a sense of relaxation and enjoyment.

Ready to explore Portugal's wine culture? Let's start with an introduction to Portuguese wines!

Introduction to Portuguese Wines

Let's start your journey into the magical world of Portuguese wines. It's a mix of history and the special taste of native grapes. Portugal's wine history goes back centuries, shaped by Phoenicians and Romans.

- Buy Fruit In Glass: Wine Myths, Facts & Opinions for more about Wines From Portugal, and other Hot wine regions, Cheers!

The country's wine areas show its rich past. The Douro Valley is famous for its ports. The Alentejo is known for its strong reds. These places have special soils that make great wines.

Portugal is also known for unique varietals. Grapes like Touriga Nacional and Arinto make Portuguese wines stand out. These grapes, grown for many years, give wines a special taste.

For those who love wine, exploring Portuguese wines is like tasting history. The mix of old ways and new methods shows the country's lasting legacy and creativity.

"Portugal's wine history is not just about tradition. It's about a commitment to excellence that spans centuries.” – Wine Expert

Wine Region	Key Varietals
Douro Valley	Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz
Alentejo	Arinto, Castelão

Portuguese wines, filled with history, invite you to discover, enjoy, and love their stories, tastes, and traditions.

Best Portuguese Wines to Try

Exploring the best Portuguese wines to try, we find Top Red Wines from Douro and Dão. These places are famous for their strong flavors and complex tastes. Wines like Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz have unique smells and deep flavors, showing off Portugal's spirit.

displayed on a rustic wooden table, featuring diverse bottle shapes and labels, surrounded by vibrant grapes and lush green vines, with a backdrop of a sunlit vineyard landscape; include a steaming barbeque grilling juicy burgers to suggest pairing possibilities, all under warm golden hour lighting for an inviting atmosphere.

Portugal also has amazing white wines. You should try Vinho Verde and Alvarinho. They are refreshing, perfect for hot days. Their crisp taste gives a zesty kick, making them fun to drink.

Don't miss out on Portuguese rosés too. They are lively and taste like strawberries and citrus. Whether you like them dry or a bit sweet, they add class to every sip.

Portugal's fortified wines, like Port and Madeira, are famous worldwide. Port is a sweet wine, with styles like Tawny and Ruby. Madeira is known for its long life and unique taste, fitting any event.

Trying these wines, from Top Reds to whites and rosés, and fortified wines, shows Portugal's wine variety. Each wine highlights the country's rich wine culture. It's a journey every wine lover should take.

Top Quality Portuguese Wine Brands

I love finding the best Portuguese wine brands. Portugal has many famous winemakers. They make wines that are loved all over the world.

ows of lush grapevines under a clear blue sky, with traditional Portuguese wine barrels lined up in the foreground, sunlight casting warm tones on the scene. Include elements like rustic stone buildings and a backdrop of rolling hills, evoking a sense of high-quality wine production.

Exploring Portuguese wineries is fun. We find hidden gems that surprise us. These wines show us the true beauty of Portuguese winemaking.

Portugal cares about the environment. Many winemakers make organic wines. These wines are good for the planet and taste amazing.

Let's look at some famous brands:

Brand	Type	Notable Wine
Esporão	Red/White	Reserva
Quinta do Noval	Port	Vintage Port

Portuguese wines are always changing. They offer something for everyone. Whether you know a lot or just starting, you'll find great wines in Portugal.

What's Your Opinion On Portuguese Wines?

Exploring Portuguese wines has been a joy for me. Among my favorites, Portuguese reds and whites are top picks. They add rich flavors and unique touches to any meal.

Pairing food with Portuguese wines makes meals special. For example, a crisp Vinho Verde goes great with seafood. A strong Douro red is perfect with grilled meats. These pairings show how versatile Portuguese wines are.

One wine that really stood out to me is Lab Reserva. It's a Portuguese red blend known for its great taste and price. It's a favorite among many wine lovers. Its berry flavors and smooth feel are perfect with beef stew.

Talking about wine with others is always fun. We often discuss the unique tastes of Portuguese wines. A sip can start a deep conversation about winemaking and food pairing.

- For Amazing Pairing Ideas, Check Out "It's A Vibe: A Food & Wine Experience", Cheers!

Portuguese wines are truly captivating. They offer a wide range of flavors and are rich in history. Whether you like dry whites or full-bodied reds, they're great for any wine collection.

Here's a comparison of some popular Portuguese wines I've tried:

Wine	Region	Grape Variety	Flavor Profile	Food Pairing
Lab Reserva	Lisboa	Red Blend	Dark berries, smooth tannins	Beef stew, grilled meats
Vinho Verde	Vinho Verde	Loureiro, Alvarinho	Crisp, citrus notes	Seafood, light salads
Douro Red	Douro	Touriga Nacional	Rich, earthy tones	Roasted lamb, aged cheeses

Sharing your wine experiences and tips is great. It helps build a community of wine lovers. So, what do you think about Portuguese wines? I'd love to hear your stories and suggestions!

Conclusion

We've looked at Portuguese wines together. I hope you found this guide helpful and exciting. Wine lovers will love the many tastes and styles from Portugal.

Trying different Portuguese wines is fun for everyone. Each wine has its own story. It shows the hard work and special places where these wines are made.

Exploring Portuguese wines is a fun journey. It's perfect for dinner parties or gifts. These wines show off culture, history, and quality. So, let's enjoy these wines and add them to our collections.

- Buy Fruit In Glass: Wine Myths, Facts & Opinions for more about Wines From Portugal, and other Hot wine regions, Cheers!

FAQ

What's your opinion on Portuguese wines?

Portuguese wines are very diverse and full of unique tastes. They are great for both new wine lovers and experts. This is because of the many native grapes and different wine areas.

Can you give an overview of the wine regions in Portugal?

Portugal has many famous wine areas. The Douro Valley is known for Port wine. The Alentejo is famous for strong reds. Vinho Verde is known for its cool white wines.

Each area has its own weather and soil. This makes their wines very special.

What are some must-try Portuguese wines?

You should try the strong reds from Douro and Dão. Also, the cool whites like Vinho Verde. Don't forget the bright rosés and famous fortified wines like Port and Madeira.

Which are the top quality Portuguese wine brands to look for?

Look for brands like Esporão, Quinta do Noval, and Casa Ferreirinha. They are known for their top quality. They help show the world how great Portuguese wines are.

Why should I choose Portuguese wines?

Portuguese wines have a wide range of flavors. This is because of their special grapes and long winemaking history. They are also cheaper than many European wines. This makes them perfect for any occasion.

Are there organic options when it comes to Portuguese wines?

Yes, Portugal is making more organic wines. These wines are made with care for the earth. Brands like Herdade do Esporão offer great organic wines that taste amazing.

Any recommendations for food pairing with Portuguese wines?

Portuguese wines go well with many foods. Reds like Touriga Nacional are great with grilled meats. Vinho Verde is perfect with seafood.

Port and Madeira are great for desserts and cheese platters.

What is Lab Reserva, and why is it called the Wine Steal of the Week?

Lab Reserva is a Portuguese red blend. It's known for being affordable but full of flavor. It's a great example of Portugal's quality wines that won't break the bank.