If you travel, and like wine, then it’s most likely worth your time to join Vino Volo’s Loyalty Program.  Not only is it free to join,  but it comes with access to $2 tastings of certain wines deemed as “Special Tastes”.  Today in Cleveland, they’re offering a taste of their 2012 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.  

Sight:  A deep purple body with firm hot pink edges.

Smell:  Plenty of spices, plums, and cherries jump out from the word go.  The nose has a hint of eucalyptus to it, providing a cooling note.

Sip:  The body is smooth and full, with plenty of acidity to keep it balanced.  Dry as can be, it’s packed with plum skin, dark red cherries, hints of oak and tobacco.  Touches of eucalyptus and mint play in the background.

Savor:  Tannic and laced with plums and currants, the finish lingers gently, but builds more tannic over time, wrapping the tongue in velvet.

At $43 a bottle, 2012 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is certainly interesting, but perhaps a bit overpriced for what it offers.  Compared to the complexity and depth of the Vincent Arroyo, it feels as though Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is about $20 higher than it should be.  However, in the interest of exploring wine, I encourage all of you near a Vino Volo offering samples to enjoy a $2 sample of 2012 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, and judge for yourself.

Verdict: Spiced, Plums, Tannic, Cherry
Price: $43
Sonoma, California