Bargain Wines

Went to Cosco this weekend.. and oh boy do I hate to go there on a weekend. What a nightmare!! But, I had my lunch of samples while browsing the isles! ha. Anyways… I came across the wine section and noticed they were offering a few of my favorite wines at pretty decent prices.

The first was my yummy Beringer that was being sold for just $75… so of course I had to buy one!!! But… forget that one for now.

My awesome bargain wine finds were actually pretty good this time around… I have had some bad luck at Costco before with spoiled wine… not a happy camper with that one, especially since it more of a pain to even ATTEMPT to return the wine at all. But this time, total success!

The First purchase was a bottle of the Francis Coppola Claret Diamond Series, 2006. The Claret is a perfect red blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with the rest being made up of Petit Verdot, Merlot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc grapes. The Claret has a gorgeous color and flavor. It was priced below $15, so I picked up 2!

First sip was a slight turn off… I was not patient! I let it sit in the glass for about 20 min. and had another go… OMG it was LOVE! So I poured the bottle into the decanter and let it breath for a good 45 min. It softened and became a delicious juicy wine with hints of cherry and dark fruits without being overly sweet. A bit on the dry side (again I love drier wines) and with very little tannin action. Just a really nice sipping wine! Both bottles were the same so I was very pleased. Overall a very consistant and delicious wine.
This wine usually sells for about $19, but I have seen it at various places such as Costco and World Market both for under $15. My advice… stock up now and drink it over the summer!

My second wine which surprised me to see at Costco, was Artesa’s Pinot Noir Carneros Estate, 2006. Artesa is a fantastic winery up in Napa that truly has one of the most fantastic views of the valley up there, ever. I LOVE to go sit outside on the deck and taste their wines.. such a wonderful experience.
I really enjoy Artesa’s red wines… however that is also due to the fact that I am primarily a red wine drinker, yet I have heard nothing but rave reviews about their hearty chardonnay.. just fyi.

Artesa’s Pinot Noir Carneros ‘06 is a rich and very well rounded wine. I tasted fruity flavors as well as some mild sweeter spices, yet again without the sweetness that can be a turn off. A perfect wine to be served before, during, or even after dinner. Best compliments would be a nice lamb or meaty dish as it really has a strong yet smooth flavor. This also worked beautifully with dessert- a chocolate soufflé. This wine has a very nice finish overall and a in my opinion is a very prestigious wine to present. I have not seen this wine sold for less than $22.. so if you are at Cosco and see it there… STOCK UP!