Here's a Chianti that is really good and only $6.99 at Trader Joes. The Fior de Vino Riserva really has those nice earthy Chianti notes- a true-to-its-origin dry red. I'll give it 7 swiggs.
Here's a shout out to a winery I visited in Paso Robles a couple of weeks ago. Rio Seco is a family owned winery that was built in an old building that used to be a marijuana growing room ! it's kind of funny now as that particular business is coming back now that California has de-criminalized it. Rio Seco though is sticking with growing grapes and making some affordable blends like the one pictured here, along with some really spectacular varietals such as Cabernet Franc and Petit Sirah , the latter being one of the best I have ever had. The flagship wines and not cheap but they are a good value for the quality they offer. The winery is a great place to visit- much smaller and more down-home than many in the area. The owner was a wonderful woman who was actually working the tasting room that day- a rare treat to get pours from the boss herself.
I have not been posting much new wine as I have not been getting very many new unrated bottles. When you find some good wines that are affordable there's two things that happen: # 1, you tend to stick with that wine for a few weeks. # 2, Once you review it, the wine mysteriously gets sold out never to return. I don't know about you but this frustrates the hell out of me. -That said, I can't blame people for liking the same good deals that I like. Case in point: Flux red wine at Trader Joes. If you can find it, get it- there's no more around here. It was $ 7.99 and easily 8 swiggs- one of the winners you hope to fine once a year if you are lucky.
So here's one you still can find. The St. Hallett is a Shiraz at $9.99 from Shopper's Corner. It is almost fizzy but the flavor is like most Barossa reds- big and fruity. I do recommend it- I'll give it 7 swiggs.
