Five Bucks?

As promised, here’s a wine from a much more affordable price bracket. $5 from Grocery Outlet…

The varietals in this wine aren’t specified on the bottle, but given it’s flavour profile and the fact it’s from Sicily, Nero d’Avola is a prime suspect. As Nero d’Avola is one of the grape varietals I have planted in my little vineyard, I had to give this one a go when I saw it, although expectations weren’t all that high given the price tag. Shopping for wine at Grocery Outlet seems like a bit of a hit and miss affair, but I often find myself in there looking for a bargain. Tasted 06/26/18.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby colour, pretty even across the glass.

ABV is 13.5% on the bottle, although I suspect it to be a touch higher than that.

First impressions are of dark, jammy fruit. The nose is of moderate intensity, displaying blackberry, dark-roast coffee, and a hint of vanilla.

Medium+ tannin is a touch rough, and the acidity I would say is moderate.

Ripe fruit flavours prevail on the palate with not much noticeable oak, but the mouthfeel is full, and the finish lasts fairly well.

Conclusion

In all, I would say this wine represents excellent value. It’s not the most complex wine ever, but it has a nice balance of fruit and acidity.

The tannin could be a bit more refined, but for this money, I can’t really complain about that. Just decant the wine or wash down your favourite rich pasta dish with it, and it’ll be just fine.

Darren.