So there’s no doubt that Skinnygirl had an effect on the market when it came to growing a calorie reduced wine niche.  The moscato though, left something to be desired.  Can the red wine, which is a grand total of 10 calories less per glass, justify buying over something else?

Sight:  A pinkish edge with a firm purple body.

Smell:  Plums, blueberry, and a hint of vanilla like sweetness are all present.    Green pepper and a hint of smoke pick up in the background.

Sip:  Bright and semisweet on the start, it’s somewhat unexpected.  The flavor is somewhat unripe, channeling green peppers, plum skins, and currant.  The sweet and sour mix is odd to say the least.  The notes of smoke come into play slightly, but more of the green notes are driving it.

Savor:  The ending has a bit of plum and red fruit, but vanish with just a lick of tannins.

Skinnygirl California Red 2013 is similar to the moscato cousin, in that it’s doesn’t quite satisfy.  While I’m not 100% sure what they do to keep to the calorie count down, but the unripe character and low alcohol imply that perhaps the grapes are slightly short of ripe or they’re cutting the fermentation short.  Whatever is occurring, it isn’t quite delivering the experience that most reds are providing.  Sure you could try to save calories with Skinnygirl California Red, but you can enjoy more red wines with just an oz less even more.

Verdict:  Green Pepper, Plum Skin, Currant, Unripe
Price: $9
California