Wine Review: Scotto Family Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Lodi 2012

For everyday wines under $15 you can’t expect greatness—the economics of winemaking do not permit it. But what I look for are hints of originality, a winemaker striving to distinguish her product from the sea of ordinary sitting on the bottom shelf. Too often wines in this price range aim for the same style–big and juicy, but soft and smooth, flashy but innocuous and safe, concerned to leave a good first impression but with little for the more attentive drinker to appreciate. Bold but safe usually ends up just being confused.

So when I find a wine with that spark of originality it’s cause for celebration.  So let’s celebrate.

The first impression is  juicy blackberry with  a little earth, but intriguing spice notes, nutmeg wrapped in milk chocolate woven with whispers of smoke, creep in to set this wine apart.  On the palate, there is plenty of flavor though not excessively ripe. It is medium-bodied, svelte, graceful, and lively, with very refreshing acidity, especially on the finish which shows lingering after-flavors of tart cranberry and slightly charred wood, supported by tannins that have some grain but don’t grip. More spice-driven than fruity, more elegant than bold, great clarity and complexity for the price.

A unique blend of 78% Cabernet, 18% Barbera,  4% Petite Verdot

Outstanding  quality to price ratio. If you want a little sophistication for your daily drinker this is it.

Sip with this lovely version of Sophisticated Lady by Sarah Vaughn

Style: spicy, lively,refreshing

Score: 88

Price: $12

Alc: 13%

Industry sample