Every once in a while I stumble upon a wine that blows my mind, especially for the price. When I choose a wine for the “Pick Of The Month”, I feel it is always a good value and at least 80% of the people who buy it will most likely enjoy it. They are not all mind-blowing wines. However, they are really good for the money. This month’s pick is what I consider mind-blowing and it’s under ten bucks!
2017 Pratello “Mille 1” Garda Rosso (Garda Lombardy, Italy)… $9.
A blend of 40% Corvina, 40% Rebo (I’ll explain in a minute), and 20% Merlot, this little gem normally goes for close to twenty bucks. However, because it is an older vintage, I got a screaming deal on it. Rebo is a crossing of Merlot and Teraldego. It adds depth and spice to a wine that it is blended into.
Aromas of Rust, cherries and plums with a kiss of blackberries. Red cherries and blackberries on the palate with an underbelly of plums and red flowers on sweet tannins. Nicely integrated acidity gives it good structure and balance. The fruit notes carry across the palate into a pleasing, long finish where ripe cherry notes linger with a slight kiss of tobacco. This baby is a “10” in the delicious category with enough structure to lend it well with roasted or grilled meats and strong cheese. I would be happy to pair it with pizza, burgers, or roasted chicken as well. (B)
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