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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bubble lovers, gather around. I found a sparkling treasure that will excite you. It's a $7.99 Cava out of Spain and it's my new hidden gem. It's both affordable and a top choice for your favorite.
Let's see how this budget-friendly bubbly compares to pricier ones. It offers a great experience at a low cost.
tly displayed on a rustic wooden table, surrounded by fresh seafood, such as oysters and shrimp cocktail, with soft natural lighting highlighting the bubbles in the wine. A backdrop of an inviting outdoor setting with greenery and a hint of blue sky
Finding a go-to bubbly that's affordable can be tough. But this Iberian delight is a game-changer. It's perfect for any celebration, big or small.
Discovering Budget-Friendly Bubbly for Any Celebration
Finding the best value sparkling wine is key for me. It's important to enjoy a good glass of bubbly without spending too much. I've found many cheap sparkling wine options that are both tasty and affordable.
Looking for sparkling wine on a budget doesn't mean you have to settle for less. There are many sparkling wines that are both affordable and full of flavor. Enjoying a glass of bubbly can be a special treat without costing a lot.
Here are some key attributes to look for in budget-friendly sparkling wines:
Balanced acidity – crucial for that refreshing taste
Fine bubbles – a sign of quality fermentation
Complexity in flavors – from crisp apple to toasty brioche notes
Finding a sparkling wine on a budget means looking for hidden gems. These wines often offer the best taste for the price. It's great to find affordable sparkling wines that are also enjoyable.
Choosing sparkling wines on a budget is an art and a science. Each bottle tells a story of vineyards, grapes, and winemakers' care. By making smart choices, you save money and support small wineries.
Here's a comparison of some popular options that are both good and affordable.
Brand
Region
Price
Tasting Notes
Cava Elegante
Catalonia, Spain
$15
Crisp, green apple, toasted almonds
Prosecco Presto
Veneto, Italy
$12
Fruity, hint of pear, lively effervescence
Vin Mousseux Pure
Loire Valley, France
$18
Bright, lemon zest, finely integrated bubbles
Enjoying bubbly, especially when it's affordable, makes any moment special. Looking for cheap sparkling wine options makes us think differently about what's valuable. Cheers to finding bubbly that lets you celebrate more often and more affordably!
La Graña 360 Cava Brut: The Wine Steal of the Week
When I found La Graña 360 Cava Brut, I knew it was special. It's our Wine Steal of the Week. It's fancy but doesn't cost too much, making celebrations fun without spending a lot.
played on a rustic wooden table, surrounded by a selection of fresh seafood, including oysters and shrimp. Light glistens off the sparkling wine, highlighting its bubbles, with a subtle backdrop of coastal scenery. The setting is warm and inviting, emphasizing the charm of an outdoor dining experience.
La Graña 360 Cava Brut is a top pick for Spanish wine. It uses special grapes like Xarello and Parellada. Each bottle is full of life, perfect for any celebration.
Behind the Glistening Bubbles
Making La Graña 360 Cava Brut is a labor of love. It follows old Spanish winemaking ways. This makes it crisp and lively, great for any moment.
Scents and Sensations: A Profile of Aromas and Flavors
When you pour it, a lovely smell comes out. You'll smell lime, sea salt, and grapefruit. There are also sweet notes of white peach and flowers.
The taste is fresh, with a hint of peach and a bit of minerality. It ends with a refreshing finish. The acidity makes each sip zesty and fun.
This week is a great time to try La Graña 360 Cava Brut. It's perfect for parties or gifts. This Wine Steal of the Week shows you can get great quality without spending a lot, especially when it's made with love.
Affordable Champagne Alternatives That Impress
Champagne is fancy, but there are affordable champagne alternatives for everyone. I've found ways to keep the fun and fizz without breaking the bank. Let's find out how to sparkle without spending a lot.
In Spain, inexpensive sparkling wines like cava are a big deal. They're made like champagne but cost less. Cava is complex and surprising, making it a luxury at a lower price.
Italy is home to prosecco, a budget-friendly bubbly that's sweet and fruity. It's great for any occasion, from brunch to outdoor parties.
The U.S. also makes amazing sparkling wines. Places like California and New York offer top-notch wines without the high cost of imports. These wines are changing the game, matching European standards for less.
Why is this important? Celebrating big moments shouldn't cost a lot. The right budget-friendly bubbly can make any occasion special, just like expensive champagne.
Cava, Spain: Fresh, vibrant, with a hint of earthiness—perfect for toasts and hearty cheers.
Prosecco, Italy: Sweeter and lighter, ideal for daytime events and dessert pairings.
American Sparkling Wines: Bold flavors and pioneering spirit, suitable for those looking to explore new tastes.
Let's celebrate with smart choices. Raising our glasses to affordable champagne alternatives is a toast to good taste and smart spending. Cheers to enjoying life without breaking the bank!
Here’s a quick glance at some of the sparkling wine deals that have made it to the patrons' top picks:
Brand
Average Price
Community Rating
La Graña 360 Cava Brut
$14
4.5/5
Alma Viva Brut
$17
4.2/5
Bella Vista Sparkling Moscato
$12
4.7/5
Éclat du Soleil Blanc de Blancs
$18
4.3/5
Whether it's a special event or a simple night in, there are many great sparkling wines. These wines are loved by many and won't empty your wallet. Every sip is a special moment.
Pairing Your Sparkling Wine: Expert Tips for Memorable Matches
Perfection in a glass is what I aim for with every sparkling wine pairing. Imagine the bubbles of a Cava making a goat cheese salad even better. Let's explore how to make your gatherings special with the right wine pairings.
My adventures with sparkling wine have been full of tasty finds. For example, a chilled Prosecco pairs perfectly with oysters. It's a match made in food heaven. For a treat, try Brut with lobster. It's a flavor mix that's both rich and crisp.
Finding great deals on sparkling wine is exciting. Retail club members get special discounts, making our wine adventures more fun. While prices change, finding a good deal is always worth it. So, here's to making smart choices and enjoying great wine without spending too much.
What is the best bargain go-to sparkling wine under $20?
The La Graña 360 Cava Brut is my top pick. It's a great deal for under $20. It's complex and balanced, perfect for any event.
Can you suggest some cheap sparkling wine options that are good for celebrations?
Yes, there are many affordable options. Try Prosecco from Italy, Crémant from France, or Sekt from Germany. They're festive and won't break the bank.
What makes La Graña 360 Cava Brut a "Wine Steal of the Week"?
La Graña 360 Cava Brut is a steal because it's so affordable. It's made with traditional Spanish grapes. It has great aromas and flavors, all for a low price.
Are there affordable champagne alternatives that still impress guests?
Yes! Look at Prosecco from Italy or Crémant from France. They're like champagne but cheaper. They're elegant and bubbly, perfect for any event.
How do I pair my sparkling wine to make the experience more memorable?
Pair your sparkling wine with foods that match its taste. For light Cavas or Proseccos, try almonds, olives, or tartar. For richer wines, creamy dishes like risotto or soft cheeses like brie are perfect. Match the wine's intensity and flavors with your food for a memorable pairing.
