Sunday evenings have kinda developed a pattern if I’m not out. Open something old and somewhat *for-the-masses*. So it’s #simisunday all the way. This little 08 is crankin out nutty frosting and gobs of leathery tertiary bouquet while maintaining a dense ruby appearance: for the extra point. Brilliant mint and raw fresh pasta complete the nose with very little bright fruit coming through. In the mouth, a whole different ballgame, with black cherry, dried cranberry acid and chocolate turtle bringing the walnut dry stony confiture home. Crisp and sharp, not an ounce of flab or oxidation on it, roiling brash on the palate, focused leanly and never over-exposed, the long finish brings the bouquet full-circle. I can’t believe how tight this thing is for a $25 supermarket wine at 10.

2008 SIMI WINERY Cab Alexander Valley 13.5

simiwinery.com