I've been snooping around, trying to find a Cabernet that retails for less than $15 that I actually like. Most of them, the American ones anyway, taste like Koolaid and might as well be a cheap Australian Shiraz--full of overdone, fruity dreck. This wine is not one of them. The Trinchero Family Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 is a low-alcohol (13.3%) wine of medium extraction with no signs of aging. The nose contains many of the classic Cabernet notes, along with a wonderful menthol component that immediately created an "ah ha" moment for me, since this is something I often notice in Bordeaux or even in some American Cabs like the amazing Three Saints, wines with greater complexity and balance. In the mouth the Trinchero has (drumroll here) surprising balance, with excellent acidity (good with food) and decent length. Nice dark fruit flavors predominate (black currant) with hints of leather, asphalt and some vegetal notes. Not as complex as a higher-priced wine, but still very compelling at $13. This wine is what I would like to see more of: a nice balance of Bordelais and New World style. So much better than the syrupy-sweet efforts (think McManis, Yellowtail) and worth trying on its own or with your next red meat meal.
My score: 87 points
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