Monday, February 23, 2009

YEAH, HERE COMES THE ROOSTER...



















One of my all-time favorite songs is by Alice in Chains, called "Rooster." It's Jerry Cantrell's exploration of his father's life in Vietnam, whose nickname was The Rooster. An all-together different kind of rooster is the one adorning one of my favorite wineries, Hahn Estates. Truly one of the most reliable producers in California, this Monterey County winery churns out one consistent value after another. And if ever there was a hidden gem anywhere in the wine biz, not just our store, it would most certainly have to be the Hahn Meritage 2006.


The Grade: OUTSTANDING. The Mojo: The Hahn Meritage 2006 is a phenomenal value in California red wine. This kick ass Bordeaux-styled blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec saw 11 months in both new and neutral French oak barrels, giving it the perception and style of a top-notch cru Bourgeois. Possessing ripe, rich aromas of black and blue fruit aromas, intertwining with hints of cherry, cedar, and baking spices, the initial taste greets you with well-balanced, supple tannins, blackberry, loganberry, black cherry, red and black currant, spice box, tobacco and mocha notes, careening into a sturdy frame of juicy plum and blueberry flavors all the way into the lengthy finish.

Anyone looking for a great California red under $20, you need look no further. I would have to tell you, if it has a big red rooster on the label, there’s no need to worry – it’s gonna be great.

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