Send in the Juice!

Well, I promised that this design blog would include some sipping information, and while it's a tough job, someones got to give you the low down on the juice.
Today I'm going to review two wines, one that is dirt cheap, yeah, I had to hide it in my grocery cart between the Chex Mix and the chicken breasts.  The other, Oh, be still my heart. The other wine is called Stags Leap, but you'll want to call it, Lover.

First I want to familiarize you with my rating method.

Elena DE Mendoza- Argentina 2010 Malbec- Cost a whooping $8.99 (my bottle had a neck tag offering me a dollar off, so I paid $7.99). Crazy price. Seriously, I typically pay- or at least in that "other" economy, I'd pay more than that for a single glass of wine.  When I purchase an unknown wine, I usually check it out first using my iPhone wine app.  This one came back as a keeper, so I figured, "Why not spend my last ten bucks on a bottle of wine?"

The Verdict: New economy wine. A few years ago, we'd probably not have been bothered, but considering today's economy, I like it.
Presents with earthy, leather, dry, soft cherry flavors. Best served with a meal, rather than just sipping.  I tried it with chocolate and it was amazing how the taste changed and really opened up.  Big surprise that this was actually a very drinkable wine and one that I'll definitely put in my next "blind" tasting.  It will be fun to see how many will be able to guess that this one rings in under ten bucks.

 Why, Hello Lover...
 Stags Leap-Napa Valley 2008 Cabernet - I can fondly remember the "good old days." Back when I'd set my wig on fire and dance in the streets for a good bottle of wine. Sadly, those days are gone and we are living in a new economy.  Finding really good red wine for under $30 bucks is rare and it's even rarer yet, that when I do stumble (ha) upon a find, that I've got $30 bucks to invest in a bottle of wine.  Yes, I said, invest.  I consider it an investment in my happiness factor.  Almost nothing gets me happier or more excited than opening a new bottle of wine. It's an adventure!




The Verdict:  At $34 bucks (Retails around $49- ABC had a sale.) it's a real find. Pricey, especially for a gal that used to snort her wine with a straw, but oh, so worthy!  Buy two, one as a gift and one to keep.
A vibrant, rich ruby color with aromas of freshly picked strawberries, followed by hints of ripe blackberries and blueberries. Rolls over the tongue, leaves you wanting more.  Very smooth, a bit lighter than I'd like on the finish, but the smoothness and overall taste makes up for this.
My guess is that if you were to cellar this for a year or two, you will have an outstanding wine.
I'm not gonna predict that with one swallow you'll take off all your clothes, but it will definitely cross your mind.