I’m a big fan of a lot of Napa’s mountain cabs -Diamond, Howell, Spring, Atlas Peak – and they typically carry with them a price tag starting at $40 and going up from there.  So it was a nice treat to see the Kirkland Signature Series Mountain Cuvee at stores and priced at only $19.99.  And that was about what I would want to pay for it. I found it to be enjoyable and pleasant, perfect for a $20 Napa.

On the initial pour this wine was very closed.  I would recommend a decant or let it sit in your glass for an hour or two before consuming.  It changed a lot, and for the better.  The wine is a thick dark purple with a floral and vegetal nose.  In the mouth, this is a full bodied, highly tannic wine that is big and bold.  Flavors of dark fruit, blackberry, a touch of anise leading into a peppery finish with hints of cigar box/tobacco.  The alcohol follows suit in size, clocking in at 14.9%, and it was noticeable on the close, but not overbearing.

Try this one for $20, and if you enjoy it, move up from there into some of the other mountain wines.  I think they are a fun exploration.

CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 89 Points

Costco item number: 501776