Lolonis Cabernet 2005

This was half-off at the local mart, and so I couldn't pass it up.  I usually do Zins more often so this will be a treat of difference.

Look/Smell - Sweet, green apple and the juiciest grape.  Red, then purple.  Sweetness is in the tartness.

Taste - Tart, plummy, green apple.  Tannins are light.  This one is suspiciously sweet for how high its alcohol content is.  The tannins come after the tart, they coat the tongue like a sheet, not like a blanket.

Rating - 6
Although this one is pleasing, I expect more from a cab.  It should be full of flavors and balanced.  This one is exceptionally tart which is unique but also its downfall.

Zaco Vina Tempranillo Rioja 2006

This one caught my eye because it was an older vintage of a varietal I had not yet tried.  It was right next to the Malbecs, my favorite varietal which intrigued me.  The bottle is very sexy which probably also led to my purchase.  This wine was created in Spain.

I let it rest for about 25 minutes, making sure it was chilled to around 60 degrees (by feel, but it was better than not think about it at all).

Look/Smell - Cherries and peach, not unlike a sweeter Malbec.  Deep red like cherry juice.  The cherry smell is wonderful.

Taste - Deep tannin profile, cherry flavors remain but are in the background.  The grapes are tart and warm, and the alcohol is only apparent on the warming after-swallow.

Rating -9
This one is worth every penny, and being around $12 it is an easy choice for your night-time sip.

Trivento Malbec 2008

It's been awhile so this will be fun.  It's also my favorite variety.

Look/Smell - Deep purple.  Citrus tart, orange and lemon symphony.

Taste - After resting for 15min deep tannin profile, orange's more prevalent than lemon.  Slightly vanilla on the way down and on the aftertaste which I'll attribute to the tannins.

Rating - 7
This one is great for the price.  It will satisfy you're craving for a deep, full red.