WINE REVIEW: 2017 Z. Alexander Brown, “Uncaged” Proprietary Red Blend, California ($18)

by Andrew Chalk

Sorry about the soiling of the label. Couldn't wait!

Appearance: Opaque ruby.

Nose: Dark fruit. Forest floor. Baking spices.

Palate: Intense forward fruit. New world Malbec (think Argentina) is the most prominent varietal. Grippy tannins. Pleasant fruit forward finish.

This blend of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Merlot, and Malbec is very enjoyable now with red meat, or red sauce pasta dishes. It is not a wine that I would age and is not immensely complex, but, at the current price, is good value.

Sample