The Wine Thread

[cbsmokin]

I enjoyed some 2002 Pepper Bridge Cabernet Sauvignon the other night. It's difficult to find under $50. Anyone had it before? If you have can you recommend something as an alternative?

[mosesbotbol]

Originally Posted by cbsmokin

I enjoyed some 2002 Pepper Bridge Cabernet Sauvignon the other night. It's difficult to find under $50. Anyone had it before? If you have can you recommend something as an alternative?

Have not had this wine, but Wine Spectator says, "Not a big wine, almost elegant in structure, with dark cherry, pepper and dusky herb flavors that persist on the chewy, smoky finish. Needs time to flesh out. Best after 2008. 3,059 cases made - 88 points" Washington St. wine.

That fits the bill of a ton of CA Cab's. I am not too up on CA wines, but try Ridge or Diamond Creek (a little expensive but worth it).

Something a little more affordable, Beringer's Knights Valley is tempting at under $30.00.

Originally Posted by cbsmokin

I enjoyed some 2002 Pepper Bridge Cabernet Sauvignon the other night. It's difficult to find under $50. Anyone had it before? If you have can you recommend something as an alternative?

Pepper Bridge is a little expensive IMHO for what it is, but has a very distinct Walla Walla flavor profile. You could try other wines from the same vineyards (pepperbridge and 7 hills). For that style I very much like Beresan which should be about $30-$35. The owner Tom Waliser is the vineyard manager for both of the above vineyards, and his estate vineyards are pretty excellent.

Others somewhat similar and a little less expensive than pepper Bridge are Basel Cab Pheasant Run Vineyard, Hightower Pepperbridge vineyard, Fidelitas Walla Walla cab and Dusted Valley Walla Walla cab. There are a ton more but those come to mind quickly.

~Vitis

[King James]

My neighbor really enjoys red wine. I think she will drink just about any wine, so she isn't very picky and will drink cheaper bottles... but I was wondering what a nice mid-range bottle would be to get for Christmas?

Originally Posted by King James

... I was wondering what a nice mid-range bottle would be to get for Christmas?

Not knowing what is available where you live (or what price range we're really talking about) I would find a reputable wine shop in the area and speak with the staff about what you are looking for. Those guys will know what is tasting good that they have in stock and give you more guidance. Even though Ive been cellaring wine for years, I always still speak with the sommelier at restaurants to find out what they have that is drinking well for the money. A reputable shop will have tasted most of the stuff they have and give good advice.

~Vitis

[mosesbotbol]

Originally Posted by King James

My neighbor really enjoys red wine.

I was wondering what a nice mid-range bottle would be to get for Christmas?

Ask what her favorites of current are and go from there. If she drinks alot of Italian wines, get her a nicer bottle of Italian wine than she is drinking... Same for any style. You have to know what she likes before you can do anything.

It just sucks to spend some good money on wine and then the person does not enjoy that style. One of my friends is big into wine, but does not like Pinot Noir, so giving him a Burgundy is waste of money.