2005 Taria ‘Cuvée 384’

Man, I love the Gold Medal Wine Club. They really have great stuff in their monthly selections. This, for example, was really good and I think showed potential to age. A smidge oaky with a hint, just a hint of smoke/tobacco. I don't like cigar box wines, so it certainly wasn't that, but it wasn't bam in your face fruit either. We drank it by itself and while it was very good I think it would be GREAT with some meat- beef, lamb, something that walks. And reasonably priced- I think if we order a half case its $17/bottle.

"The Taria 2005 Central Coast ‘Cuvée 384’ is a Bordeaux style blend representative of the Central Coast region and the 2005 vintage, and named for the restaurant in which it’s been exclusively offered. Older Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from vineyards in the heart of the Paso Robles appellation were joined with cool climate Monterey County Malbec, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon to produce this well cultivated blend. The vineyards were chosen because while they produce consistently high quality fruit, they also have excellent soil structure and uniformity, allowing all the grapes to ripen at the same time. The end result is a wine as fruity as any California Cabernet, but also as refined as any wine from Bordeaux. A Gold Medal Wine Club Exclusive, the Taria ‘Cuvée 384’ expresses ripe stone fruit, spice, tobacco, and soft vanilla aromas with a rich, balanced mouthfeel and smooth tannins. Pair the Cuvée with hearty steaks, filet mignons, and roasted lamb. 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 5% Malbec. Enjoy now until 2015."