2013 Lander Jenkins Cabernet Sauvignon

Happy Wine Wednesday!  Tonight I've decided to open a bottle of wine I found on clearance at my local wine store, the 2013 Lander Jenkins California Cabernet Sauvignon.  The producer takes great pains to point out that this winery is family owned and family farmed, and it's part of the Rutherford Wine Company, which has properties from Napa to the Central Coast AVAs in California.  This particular vintage is composed of Cabernet Sauvignon (83%) with the balance of other varietals from a number of California AVAs.  So let's see how this one tastes!

The wine is a bright ruby color in the glass, a bit lighter than your typical Napa Cabernet.  The nose is a breath of earthy notes, oak, leather, smoke and dried herbs.  The taste is surprisingly nice, with a rush of blackberry and black cherry up front that transitions to some vanilla and mineral notes midpalate.  The tannins are nicely structured, with a reprice of red fruit and spice on the long, smooth dry finish.

Overall, I would rate this wine a solid 8.5, as it's a very pleasant drinking Cabernet that's ideal for every day.  This was a great bargain at the normal price of $11, but with this one on sale 30% off, it was an irresistible bargain at just over $7!  This wine would pair well with steaks, pasta, roasts and a variety of winter comfort food.  Tonight I am enjoying this wine with braised short ribs over creamy mashed potatoes, it doesn't get more comfortable than that!