A Rose and a Red…

A Rose and a Red…

Me again. Wines that won’t break your pocketbook but that are tasty. (Or that you should really stay away from.) These are both under $10, though I don’t recall the actual price. And I’m talking California prices, so if it’s a California wine and you’re elsewhere in the country, so sorry. You’re probably paying more.

La VieilleLa Vieille Ferme Recolte 2012 Rose Wine Alcohol 13.5% by Volume – Southern Rhone Valley

On the Label: “The Perrin family are the producers of this excellent rose wine.  The vines from the appellation are planted on the hills of the renowned Mont Ventoux, and benefit from great sunlight and fairly cool temperatures for the Southern Rhone Valley.  The Blend is made from Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault and the wines have a beautiful rose color, a floral nose with hints of aniseed and brown sugar.  The mouth is on notes of white flowers, cherries and fruit drops.  The finish is fresh and balanced.  Winemakers reviews, recipe ideas, for all details, go here.” (My thanks to Pull The Cork for the photo. Go check them out!)

My Take: Okay, well – the label is obnoxious. Really? You’re gonna tell me how it smells AND tastes? Maybe it’s the translation, but when I read this I got irritated. (As if you couldn’t tell, lol!) But it’s a French wine from the Rhone Valley. I usually like those wines, and this fit into my price range, so I tried it.

My Rating: ~ Drinkable ~ Though I will say its not that different from a stringent (i.e.,  no oak) white wine. Fine when well-chilled – just don’t expect sweet from this wine.

[Noble Vines] 337 Cabernet Sauvignon  2011 Lodi, California 14.5% Alcohol by LodiVolume

On the Label: “Born in France…Raised in America. Not all wines are created equal. Noble Vines 337 is the most coveted Cabernet Sauvignon vine stock in Bordeaux, France.  These rare vines are prized for their concentrated flavor and thrive in the red soils and cobblestones of our Lodi vineyard.

“This wine exudes seductive atoms of mocha and dark cherry followed by intense flavors of ripe blackberry and spice.  Enjoy with savory pasta, pot roast, thick steaks and creamy cheeses.”

My Take: Richer than I had suspected it would be. I’ll definitely try this wine again. It has a bunch of potential, even if it’s a bit pretentious. I wanted to try a Lodi wine, and I’m glad I chose this one.

My Rating: ~ Drinkable ~ I keep searching for the Very Drinkable wines for you, my dears! But this will definitely do, in the meantime.

)O(

What’s your favorite?