It’s not often that a whole group of knowledgeable wine drinkers gasps when a bottle is revealed during a blind tasting. That happened when this Trivento 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon peeked out of the brown bag. The reason for the shock and awe? It only costs a humble $12. Yep. And its quality to value ratio is pretty impressive. As are its landholdings.
Founded in 1996 in Argentina’s Mendoza region, Trivento Bodegas y Viñedos owns over 3,100 acres of vineyards planted to nine different grape varieties. This area of the world is ideal for grape-growing (and, apparently, for buying large plots of land), with a dry growing season and soils suited for this fruit. Malbec is a big crop for them, as is Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. This Trivento Cab originates primarily from the Maipu region within the larger Mendoza appellation.
Sporting a peppery nose, this 100% Cabernet offers up black fruit, dried herbs and a tiny whiff of alcohol. The sip reveals ripe red fruit, smooth but present tannins, refreshing acidity, a hint of vanilla and an earthiness that gives it some interest. Completely unpretentious yet robust in personality, it’s really quite remarkable they can sell this kind of quality quaff for so little cash.
Sweetness: 1 out of 10
Price: $10- $12
Occasion: Sample sent from winery and enjoyed in a blind tasting by 8 wine professionals
Availability: Grocery stores nationwide (soon).
Food pairing: A humble Meatloaf would sing its praises, as would slow roasted beef or grilled lamb chops.
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