This is Shinn Estate Vineyards NV Red ($14) everyday table wine – and a great value.  The NV on the label is for Non Vintage.  This happens to be one of my favorite releases of this wine.  It was released on May 15th in the tasting room. 

A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot – almost a Bordeaux style blend.  The only variety missing is Cabernet Sauvignon.  In the past you may have found some Syrah in the blend, which gave it a peppery spicy note.  This release is sans Syrah and I think this made the wine very distinct from the earlier releases.

On the nose I was picking up some earthy notes along with some ripe juicy cherry.  There was a hint of dried herbs and spice.  A little tobacco leaf was hidden in the back ground that came up front the longer it was in the glass.

When tasted the wine I was getting some more ripe red fruit like raspberry and cherry.  The herbal note carried over that showed more of a thyme and sage profile.  The was a flavor of the wine that reminded me of the aroma of fresh pressed grapes.  I would want to call it old world style — that’s what first came to mind, however I am not sure if that would be correct.  I did find this element of the wine enjoyable.

The tannins were mild and it showed some nice acidity and good balance.  The finish was nice with a hint of black pepper spice and earthiness.

At $14 Shinn Estate Vineyards is giving you a great value for your dollar.  It is a crowd pleaser, and would go with almost any meal you prepare. I sipped this wine one day after work.  It was a bit hot outside, but somehow it refreshed me — and it did not take to long to finish the bottle either. 

Sláinte!