Tasting - Maipe Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

The last wine of today's tasting was the Maipe Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 from Argentina, which is priced at $19, but on sale for $14.95. I was pretty excited for this wine after the man pouring my wine told me he thought this would fit my preferences a little better with the fruitiness it brought.

On the tasting sheet, the following review was given by The Vintage Cellar:
"The 2013 Maipe Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, primarily aged 12 months in French oak. This lush wine is a terrific value in Cabernet Sauvignon. Its deep ruby color is accompanied by uncomplicated notes of black currants, licorice and a touch of vanilla. Medium-bodied, straightforward, delicious and surprisingly concentrated for a wine in this price range, it should drink well for 3-6 years. It is not easy to find Cabernet Sauvignon for under $25 a bottle at this quality level, but this 2013 delivers." 

The man pouring my wine was spot on - upon first scent, I knew I liked this miles beyond the last two. The scent was fruity and brought out hints of cherry and raspberry followed by a strong scent of black licorice. The presence of the fruit was brought through into the taste, which I really enjoyed. While the feel was definitely a bit dry, the fruit flavors really did it for me. There was a strong taste of cherry, raisins, black currant and a small trace of sweetness, which I noted was similar to a subtle amount of honey.

I personally thought that this wine was really balanced by the fruit and sweetness complementing the tannins. In the future, I could see myself purchasing this to pair with heavier foods such as steak or red meats.