Trivento Torrontes White Wine 2008

Tart. Citrus. Lemon. Limestone. Heartburn.

A bit "alcoholly" with a big sip and was not very good when it lost it's chill. This may be the first white I've had from the Mendoza region of Argentina which is typically known for it's Malbecs. This wine hails from the Trivento Bodegas Y Vinedos vineyard.

I'm sticking with the Argentinian reds as this was a bit acidy for me. 3.5/10 rating. $11 at Total Wine.

Francis Coppola 2007 Diamond Claret Wine

For those who know the four P's of Marketing, this wine covers 3 of the 4 well:

1. Price: $13, not too steep
2. Promotion: With the black and gold, the design is top-notch. Plus, the gold thread is unique and certainly makes it stand out.
3. Place: Costco, known to have great value on quality wines
4. Product: yeah...the wine could have been better

3 out of 4 ain't half bad ;). I'll give it 5.5/10.

"Claret" isn't some new grape, it's just a fancy way of saying it's made in the traditional Bordeaux style. A blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot, 4% Malbec and 3% Cabernet Franc.

Once I opened the bottle, the aromas filled the room - very strong, especially with the oak/vanilla scents. The dryness came out on the second night, which helped it along. Coppola's Director's Cut Zinfandel blows this out of the water, spend a few extra bucks (stocked at Trader Joe's).

Step Rd Beacon Hill 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon

The Step Rd Cabernet was a surprisingly good pick up from Total Wine for $10. I'll give it a strong 6.5 out of 10. Definitely drinks like ~$14 wine...not blowing my socks off, but beats out the normal $10 bottle of vino.

Dark berries with tannins biting nicely on the finish. Cola flavors as well with oak. Could be a bit dryer, but not complaining. A great weeknight wine.