Here are three different wines from Sonoma-based wine producer, Purple Wine Company. This producer owns Avalon Winery label where it focuses on producing value Cabernet Sauvignon. A new label in its portfolio is Blue Jean.
1. California Red Wine, Blue Jean Winery NV ($11.00 suggested)
A new label from the Purple Wine Company of Sonoma. Most likely Cabernet Sauvignon-based. 13.5% Alcohol.
2. California Cabernet Sauvignon, Avalon Winery 2004 ($11.00 suggested)
The blend consists of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Syrah, 4% Merlot, and 1% Tempranillo mainly from vineyards in the Central Coast (Monterey, Santa Barbara) and from Mendocino and Napa. 13.7% Alcohol. 3.66 pH. 5.5 grams total acidity.
3. Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, Avalon Winery 2005 ($18.00 suggested)
A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Syrah, 6% Merlot, and 1% Petite Sirah. Aged in a combination of French and American oak. 13.9% Alcohol. 3.89 pH. 7.5 grams total acidity.
Judgment/Comments:
California Red Wine, Blue Jean Winery NV
Thumbs Up: 89%
Thumbs Down: 11%
Pros: Fruity, good everyday wine, good label, balanced, rich, fun, easy
Cons: Bitter
California Cabernet Sauvignon, Avalon Winery 2004
Thumbs Up: 67%
Thumbs Down: 33%
Pros: Structured, more sophisticated than Blue Jean, smooth, smoky
Cons: Off-taste
Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, Avalon Winery 2005
Thumbs Up: 56%
Thumbs Down: 44%
Pros: More interesting, bold flavors, good fruit and tannins
Cons: Pricey, tart, good but not worth the extra bucks
Conclusions:
1. From the good turnout and positive overall response to these wines, it is clear that drinkers of fine wines now find low-priced California wines attractive. One can't this was the case just five years ago.
2. The lowest-priced, non-vintage red "Blue Jean" was the overwhelming favorite. Drinkers found it fruity but balanced and a good value everyday wine. Further, the blue jean label contributed to a hip, fun image which drinkers found attractive.
3. The two Cabernet Sauvignons, while well-liked did not particularly excite drinkers. They were seemingly perceived as somewhat stodgy, typical California Cabs.
I recently bought a bottle of the Blue Jean red wine and I loved it. I give it two thumbs up for just an everyday wine or with a meal. My husband and I drink a lot of red wine and we both agreed that it was an awesome wine for the price. I highly encourage people to try it!
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