A most offensive nose of burnt rubber and grimy earth impacts on first pour–decanted heavily. As I suspected, it somewhat blows off, revealing a muddy melange of ruddy ripeness lacking much complexity. I *hope* this isn’t from my friends at Goldschmidt in Alexander Valley, as they typically make rather decent wines across all price-points. The smell of this wine is dreary and off-putting in ways difficult to explain, affecting enjoyment considerably.

It tastes better than it smells, but for those of us who regard the bouquet as nearly everything in a wine, the asterisk has been cast. Flaccid and fruity, with glimmers of spicy acidity and vague briar, it’s not a horrible drinker, but only if you close your eyes and ignore everything worthwhile in a wine. Complete pass.

2014 GOLDSCHMIDT VINEYARDS ‘Guidepost’ Cabernet Sauvignon Rapel Valley Chile 13.5

https://goldschmidtvineyards.com/