2012 Bogle Vineyards Essential Red

Varietal:  Zinfandel; Syrah; Cabernet Sauvignon; Petite Sirah
Region:  California – USA
Cost:  $11 (SRP)

Winemaker’s Notes:   A compelling blend of California’s finest plantings of Old Vine Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah, this wine surpasses all expectation for pure enjoyment and approachability. Calling on their years of experience and tradition, Bogle winemakers have delivered a wine with RICH, enticing layers of complexity, starting with that first irresistible sip. RIPE fruit, intense with flavors of boysenberries and sweet cherries. LUSCIOUS vanilla, caressing the palate from barrel aging in American and French oak. JUICY and silky throughout, with a finish that lingers of black licorice and spicy pipe tobacco.

My Review:  Another year, another vintage of the Bogle Vineyards Essential Red. The more I try different Bogle wines the more I find myself enjoying their good balance of budget-friendliness and approachable flavors. These are not amazing wines, not ones you’re going to stick in your cellar and see how they taste in a few years. They are, however, wines you’ll enjoy, are versatile, and are fine for sharing with friends.

The 2012 Essential Red, like previous vintages, is a blend, featuring Old Vine Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petite Sirah. In the glass it was a dark red, though not completely opaque, and on the nose I picked up ripe fruit notes of cherry with a hint of blueberry.

In the mouth the wine is full of fruit, with the cherry and blueberry coming through and being joined by a hint of mocha to my palate. Paired with a dinner of grilled pork chops the wine was light enough to not overwhelm the meat, but complimenting the grilled flavors that come with an open flame.

I find myself agreeing with the name of the wine – it’s an essential red to keep around thanks to it’s versatility. I’ve paired different vintages of this wine with different foods and each time the pairing works. I suspect the only pairing that wouldn’t is light seafood such as Tilapia, but during this season of grilling and cook-outs, it’s hard not to recommend this wallet friendly wine.

Editor’s Note: I received this wine as a free sample for review.