What better way to ring in the New Year than discovering an incredibly affordable and worthwhile California red wine: Avalon Cabernet Sauvignon 2007. This Central Coast bottling offers surprises at every turn and is humbly priced at under $10 a bottle. Years ago, I remember working with Derek Benham at one of my previous employments. At that time, he was just introducing a ‘private label’ Merlot called Blackstone. As you may be aware, this label grew in popularity and fame rather quickly and it was in 2001, that Derek sold the label. The reason I mention this young California born wine visionary is he is now the creator and owner of Avalon winery. Along with winemaker Alex Cose, who spent 6 years at Calistoga’s famous Peter Michael winery, Derek Benham has created a winery exclusively dedicated to fine red wine, more specifically, Cabernet Sauvignon. His 2007 California release is primarily Cabernet Sauvignon (86%) with smaller amounts of Merlot, Syrah and Petite Sirah. So, in addition to offering the textbook aromas and flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon – cassis, eucalyptus and mint – this red gains a supple mid palate thanks to its Merlot, gathers enticing scents and flavors of blueberry from its Syrah and offers deep plummy spice and tannin from its Petite Sirah. With 20 months of French and American oak aging, this wine’s finish is subtle and toasty with lingering vanilla and nutmeg. Run; don’t walk to grab some of this spectacular California offering!
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