sid_loves_wine
Member #600,766 signed up 8/9/2018 and last accessed 5/10/2024
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2019 Sinegal Cabernet Sauvignon
5/1/2024 - sid_loves_wine Likes this wine: 95 Points
This was incredible, and reminded me of why I love Napa so much. What's more, although it isn't cheap, I think it represents great QPR and could easily improve with a cellar nap (although it doesn't need it; already very delicious.)
A real feat of balance between a rich, dark, concentrated style and surprisingly precise, chiseled structure. It doesn't have the kind of effortless perfume that comes with bottle age, but you could still smell it from feet away. Black, black fruit- blackberry compote, black cherry cola, vivid mocha (one of my fave notes in good Napa), browned butter, allspice, violet floral tones. Surprisingly racy and electric for the style, too- very polished and ultramodern. Not made in the classical earthy green style, but not even close to the early-2000s jammy style either. Just glorious. Easy 96+ with a little time...
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2021 Substance Cabernet Sauvignon
5/1/2024 - sid_loves_wine Likes this wine: 93 Points
This is the closest thing I have to a "house wine", one I buy at least fairly consistently through the years when looking for a reliable party favorite, very inexpensive gift, or simply something for my MIL to enjoy whenever she feels like it. This is my first time with this vintage.
I keep expecting to suddenly and inexplicably be disappointed with this wine, but this was another strong showing- I shouldn't have ever doubted the incredible QPR here. I think it could use a year to come out of its shell, after which it could be a 94 for the price point, but it doesn't need it. This is the real deal. A gentle but really lovely nose of black cherries and black plums, with touches of earthy coffee and dark chocolate (not overly green at all, which I am super sensitive to). Same on the palate, with some good depth, acidity, and structure. The only drawback here is the tannin density, a bit coarse and tough at this stage. That's easily solved with a good fatty burger, or a year or two of napping in the cellar.
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2021 Trader Joe's Meritage Reserve
5/1/2024 - sid_loves_wine Likes this wine: 91 Points
Not so bad for the low price, but there are still plenty of better buys at wine shops...or grocers with better wine programs (seriously...TJ's has really lost like 80% of its wine game over the last several years. Notably lower quality in their private labels with only a couple of exceptions, and far fewer options when it comes to well-priced "good stuff".)
This was acceptable, one of the slightly decent ones at the price point. Vague plummy fruit on the slightly shy nose- it feels real, not super confected, which I apprecaite. A touch of alcohol heat, but not overblown. Little touches of oaky baking spice, but too vague to really notice most of the time. Some decent structure and acidity, but it's not a memorable overall experience. I wouldn't turn down a glass at a party.
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