Today we look at a 2007 red wine from California that lists for $15, but I found for $13 (and later found for $12).
OK ladies and gents, this new cabernet sauvignon is DARN good for only $13. The Lander Jenkins “Spirit Hawk” wines — they produce only cabernet and chardonnay, I like that — are from Rutherford Wine Company, maker of the usually-delicious Rutherford Ranch cabernet. The grapes in this cab were sourced mostly from Paso Robles, an area producing such rich, deep, satisfying red wines at such bargain prices that it seems it might just swallow Napa Valley whole within our lifetimes.
However THIS cabernet is not super rich and deep — it’s a little bit lighter, brighter, sweeter, and noticeably more elegant than other Paso Robles reds I’ve had. Lander Jenkins is delicious, with the obligatory California dose of oak, but not so much as to hide the flavor of the wine itself: you get a sort of blackberry and rhubarb pie, balanced by pleasant acidity and well-behaved tannins. Nice! And a clear Wineguider “Best Value” wine.
Is there a downside? Well, Lander Jenkins is a little bit on the fruity and sweet side for a California cabernet, and it doesn’t taste exactly like a more expensive, true, tannin-filled classic California cab. But it’s close. So, I suggest you buy some high quality ground sirloin, obtain some killer spicy brown mustard and fresh lettuce and tomatoes, and as you complete your cookout menu with your favorite side items, snag a few bottles of this lovely cab for a late summer / early fall dinner outside. I think you’ll be glad you did.
Recommended.
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