If you’re like me, then there’s been times when you’ve found yourself staring blankly at a wall of wine bottles at the grocery store. Maybe you were on your way to a get-together or getting ready for a relaxing night at home- either way, the endless wine options can be overwhelming.

I know. I’ve been there.

I’ve wasted lots of money on randomly chosen wines (with aesthetically pleasing labels) that get tossed after the first glass because they’re horrible. I’ve also wasted lots of time on reading wine reviews, too.  While it’s easy to look them up, most of the time they’re coming from a seasoned wine enthusiast, in wine jargon that you then have to look up again. Bouquet? Really?

Here’s where Wine of the Week comes in. I bring to you, in plain terms, reviews of wines that are affordable and easily accessible (at your local supermarket, gas station or corner pharmacy).

Let me help you save time, money, and a hang-over by reviewing these wines for you. No more being overwhelmed by options and fancy terms. Let me help make your decision easy.

Be sure to visit again! Wine of the Week reviews come out every Thursday- just in time for you to prepare for your weekend. (YAY!)

In this 5th Edition of Wine and Lavender’s weekly segment, Wine of the Week, we will explore:

Redwood Creek Cabernet Sauvignon (California)

HEB Price: $5.98

Sight: Looks nice and full-bodied with a dark red color. I’m kind of excited about this one, because that is definitely what I like to see!

Smell: Upon first smell, it definitely makes you want to sneeze. The alcohol fumes are a little strong and it clears your nose quite nicely, much like vicks Vapo-rub will. Actually, the smell kind of reminds me of record cleaner, or maybe paint thinner… I’m trying to decide which one, but I’ve taken so many sniffs that now my nose is running. At least we have a “go-to” wine for congestion.
My husband’s thoughts on smell: He’s chosen the word “intoxicating” for it. Which I guess is proper, considering that it’s a wine. I’d say it was “intoxicating” to my nostrils more than anything else.

Taste/First Impression: Ok, well based on the price alone, I’m thinking two things: 1) it won’t be very good and 2) I’m bound to have a splitting headache in the morning. I went ahead and tried it anyway- because it’s WINE, and I love wine. The first taste was like sipping warm, old, grape juice with a hint of raisins. Technically, it is indeed old, warm grape juice, but some other winemakers do it better. There is a sweetness to it- like a good amount of sugar was added and it seems to be thick, or heavy which is what they would call “full bodied”. Husband’s thoughts: He likes it.

After taste: The aftertaste is smooth and doesn’t seem to linger, but it’s a little dull at the very end. I’m not too much of a fan. Nothing about this wine has struck me as good so far.

The Experience: Although I’m not really loving all the sugar in this wine, it really isn’t too bad for a $6 wine, but certainly not my first pick. It’s a good thing that there are tons more options at the store.

The Next Day: I did have a mild headache the next day. I should have expected this, due to the nose-clearing abilities this wine has. Again, the next time I suffer from nasal congestion, I’ll definitely think of this wine.

The Label: “Rich flavors of dark fruit are layered with notes of white pepper, mocha and vanilla.” Umm…. I’m pretty sure I’m gonna stick with warm grape juice with tons of added sugar and/or raisins. Nowhere in this wine did I taste white pepper, mocha or vanilla.

Alc.%: 13% 750ml

Repeat: While my husband seemed to like it, I think it is a little too sweet for me. The mild headache was an indicator that this wine should stay on the shelf. I won’t be buying this wine again.

Rating: It’s definitely not as bad as some of the other wines that I have tried, and the price isn’t bad, but the headache and nose running wasn’t worth it. My husband would likely buy it again- but that’s why it’s good that he has me to stop him. I’d give this bottle a 2 1/2 rating.

Looking for some better recommendations? Check out all the wines I’ve reviewed here (there’s a few good ones in there like Chateau Ste Michelle and Jason Stephens!!).

Have you tried this wine before? What were your thoughts?

Pam

Pamela is a Freelance Writer, Blogger, WAHM of 3, and Veteran Military Wife living in Southwest Texas. Raised in the Northeast and having lived a few years in the Pacific Northwest, she likes to write about mom life, parenting, frugal living, experiences, and WINE. (Lots of wine!) When she’s not busy chasing toddlers around, you can find her on the blog or on social media. Check her out on Instagram: instagram.com/wineandlavender