This wine was a surprise in more ways than one. Our first bottle of the Cisplatino Tannat Merlot was picked up during a more or less exploratory trip through the local Total Wine. Just out to grab 12 bottles of something new and perhaps a little different, and, by the way, what can I get under $10?
A tannat and merlot blend, from Uruguay, and under 10: new (to us anyway), certainly different, and under $10. And, most importantly, a good drink. Goal!
Not a rich, complex wine - we are under $10 here after all - but very balanced, well structured, full flavor and smooth finish. Some plum and dark cherry, but not a typically big fruit New World wine. More restrained than that.
Actually, our first bottle was the 2006. When we went back for more I spotted a lonely 2004 in the bin, and took it along with two more of the 2006. Compared to the 2004, the 2006 had heavier tannins and a more distinctive alcohol nip in the aroma, a little less balanced and smooth, but nonetheless a great value for money.
Drink with any simple meal that calls for a moderate body red.
