This is what cheap Bordeaux should taste like.

Simple plum with chocolate hints that peek around the funky earth that reminds me of decaying leaves (which to me is a pleasant aroma). This is an everyday wine but it has the vigor to move the mind placing you in a forest in early fall. An under $10 wine that can do that is to be treasured. The palate is  round up front but tart acidity is immediately apparent so the texture feels layered despite being a bit slender. The tannins are soft at first and then gently drying with acidity driving the medium length finish.

80% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon.

A humble but sincere wine with an autumnal flair.

The hushed but hopeful Northern Sky by Nick Drake with its softly vibrant texture captures the mood.

Score: 87

Price: $10

Alc: 12.5