As holiday bills begin to roll in, we look at a reasonably priced Cabernet Sauvignon today. Angeline, a division of Martin Ray Winery, is new to me. Their Cabernet Sauvignon from the western edge of the Paso Robles AVA is a delightful wine. It seems made in an “enjoy-me-now” mode, very forward and precocious. But the wine is better than that, with a beguiling bouquet and satisfying mouth texture. There’s something to be said about a wine not trying to be “the baddest boy on the block.” Paso Robles is a most diverse viticultural area, but it’s a landscape you will hear even more about in the coming years.
2014 Angeline Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, Paso Robles $15 srp
Translucent garnet to brick color. A briary nose of plum, cherry and blackberry with roses, tarragon and bay leaf elements enhancing the entry. There’s an overriding sweetness in the bouquet that reminds me of Christmas cakes. Flavors are medium-bodied and sappy with a flavor profile including dark cherry and soft berry fruit just short of jammy. With good balance and clean finish this is eminently drinkable, and could easily be defined as a “perfect food wine.” If that is their intent, they’ve succeeded. Drink now-2018.
88/100 points
