If you asked me five years ago about wine from Mexico, I would not have had a clue. I knew they were starting to get serious about winemaking in the Baja region but I had yet to try any. Along came Patrick, owner of Beso Imports. Patrick contacted me just over a year ago and asked if he could show me some of his portfolio, all wines from Mexico. That first visit was an eye-opener for me and I realized then that not only were they making wine down there, they were also pumping out some serious juice. My pick for this month is one from Beso Imports. Patrick has spent a ton of time going down to Mexico and developing relationships with winemakers and winery owners. He has done a great job seeking out gems from Valle de Guadalupe, Baja Mexico. This Cab is a great example.
2018 L.A. Cetto Cabernet Sauvignon (Vale de Guadalupe, Baja Mexico)… $12.
Aromas of candied currants, red and purple flowers with a hint of candied cherries joining in. Nice and spicy on the palate with notes of currants and tobacco on approachable tannins that have a touch of grit and attitude. The spice notes expand on the mid-palate into the finish where wood notes sneak in with the currants as well as red and purple flower notes that linger. This cab has good balance and good structure. The price is stupid for what you get and believe it or not, this could use a little decanting to bring out what it wants to show you. (B)
