Uncork This - Mondavi 2006 Private Selection Meritage (California)
This wine was formerly labeled Vinetta and they transitioned to Meritage for the ‘06. Although I’ve largely ignored Mondavi in years past since the quality wavered, I came across this softie in a blind tasting and was impressed. It’s a low tannin cabernet sauvignon blend oozing blackberry, black cherry, sweet vanilla, bittersweet chocolate and earthy tobacco. Complex enough to please the snobs and easy drinking enough for the newbies. Sw=1. $11. 4 stars.
This wine is featured in this week’s Corkscrew column - Chain Restaurant Wines: Expect the expected.