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! 🍷