Averill Lake California Cabernet 2006 $12, round 2

I was recommended to try this wine, because I asked for an inexpensive Cabernet that was a good typical style of Cabernet Sauvignon.   I like to take a recommendation from the store clerks to see where there tastes are, and how accurate their recommendations are.  I should have remembered this guy's name, because I think he made a great recommendation on this one!

Averill Lake 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon drinks great right out of the bottle, and after 3 days of being "Vacuu'Vin'd", it is holding up quite well.  I like to see how much "mileage" I can get out of my bottle, and this one was just the same, if not better 4 days later!  It probably would have developed fine with the original cork put back in, giving it a little oxidation, but I didn't take any chances, now I know for the next time.

It has a clear dark ruby to purple color, and a pale rim.

On the nose, I smell sweet candy, ripe black fruit, black currant, a hint of chocolate, and vanilla.  The alcohol comes through a little on the nose, giving it a bit of spice.

On the palate, I get some nice fruit up front balanced well with medium acidity, and medium tannins.  The finish is short lived, but pleasant, making me want to go back for a second sip...

... I get that big candy fruit right away on the nose, and fresh fruit comes in right at the tip of the tongue.

This wine will drink well into next year and may last a few more, but I think it can be enjoyed perfectly now with your favorite red meats, burgers, and would go great with a wine cheese pairing, maybe some sharper cheeses that can cut into the fruit and tannins... if you have any ideas on cheeses, let me know!

I think this wine is well worth the money, and since I found it for $10, it's a bargain!

Some Nice Wines For The Fall!

CARPINETO DOGAJOLO WHITE 2008 $14

from Italy

This refreshing and well structured white wine from
Tuscany is made from a blend of Chardonnay, Grechetto
and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. For all of you who would
like a change from the everyday Pinot Grigio, this will
surely please your taste buds. It's pleasantly fruity with
a fragrant aroma, good body and a very nice balance of
acidity, making it crisp and clean. Enjoy it with seafood,
or your favorite white meats.

Imported by Opici Import Company, Glen Rock, NJ
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LAN CRIANZA 2005 $12

from Spain

Lan is a wonderful full bodied wine from the well known Rioja
region of Spain. Made entirely from Tempranillo grapes, it
has aromas of dark red fruits and a very silky feel on the
palate. It is incredibly smooth with low tannins. This is a
an ideal red to serve with pork or duck.

Imported by Monsieur Touton Wines, New York, NY

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ACACIA RED BLEND 2007 $15

from California

Here is a nice surprise from a winery that specializes in Chardonnay
and PInot Noir. The Red Blend 2007 is Syrah based, however the
rest of the blend is a mystery. What is not a mystery is how well
this red drinks right now. It shows nice fruit right up front and is
perfect right out of the bottle, no need to decant it ahead of time for
full enjoyment. You will find nice flavors of plum, raspberry, blackberry
and notes of vanilla. A great value from a first class winery!!
Enjoy with red meats, ribs and game.

Bottled by Acacia Vineyards, Sonoma, CA