2015 Avalon Red Blend

Did you know that most wine consumers spend less that $12 on average for a bottle and that over 90% of the wine is consumed on the day that it is purchased?  In other words, most people are buying wine at the grocery store or wine store, taking it home and enjoying it.  And with a name like Drink The Bottles I can't argue with that logic.  But often, people will look at those same low priced bottles and not look past the end of their nose if they are looking for a quality, delicious wine.  And that would be a HUGE mistake by passing this one up.  The 2015 Avalon Winery BLEND is a red wine that includes some of my favorite varietals, which is probably why I am so drawn to it.  It is a beautiful plum skinned color in the glass with strong and welcoming aromas of fresh blackberries, barn wood and hints of licorice.  Made up of Zinfandel (54%), Cabernet Sauvignon (21%), Tannat (20%) and Petite Sirah (5%), the flavors include very juicy blueberries and blackberries, toast and mildly peppered tar.  This wine is bolder than most would expect (including present company).  It doesn't linger but finishes solidly and I'm going to certify this an FGW - Flippin' Good Wine!

ABV:  13.5%

California

Suggested retail price:  $11.99

Drink The Bottles score:  89/100

2016 Avalon Chardonnay

If I was able to take a thermos of lunch to work in the summer, I'd probably fill it with this 2016 Avalon Winery California Chardonnay.  Why?  Well, first of all because drinking wine at work would be fun, but mostly because this is a very easy drinking wine that represents most budget-minded California Chardonnay in a positive light.  Apple and pear on the nose, light golden color with pear and smoky cheese on the palate, and a quick finish.  This is the kind of wine that you should always have around and slightly chilled for those impromptu summer hangout with friends.  If the first glass doesn't completely make you a fan, the second one will.  Very versatile foodie wine.  I think you could even serve this with a ham and cheese sandwich (hence, the take it to work with you wine) and be completely happy!

ABV:  13.5%

Central Coast, California

Suggested retail price:   $11.99   

Drink The Bottles score:  85/100

2015 Avalon Cabernet Sauvignon

I figured since it was time to start writing again, I might as well start with my favorite varietal, Cabernet Sauvignon.   Now don’t start putting your nose in the air and poo poo this wine because it’s not a 100% Cab.  It’s also not priced like a full blooded red that we love to drink by ourselves and not share with the neighbors.   This 2015 Avalon CAB is a generous blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon along with Merlot (7%), Tannat (4%), Petit Sirah (2%) and Zinfandel (2%).  With this you’re getting a very affordable and tasty medium to dark red wine that has treats you with baking spices, black cherry, raspberry and some touches of vanilla.   This wine has spent some time in oak barrels which further brings out some mocha on the smooth finish.  The important thing here is that this wine is very good.  And this wine pairs great with just about anything hearty – a meatloaf, burgers, pizza, some medium to stout flavored cheeses.    You can’t go wrong here and you can impress your friends and your accountant at the same time.  *The 2014 vintage is pictured.

Suggested retail price:  $11.99

Drink The Bottles score:  87/100