I haven’t reviewed one of The Sum red blends in quite a while but I was looking forward to this 2012 vintage, which was a stellar season for California.  Plus, this wine is made by Tuck Beckstoffer, a legend of the area, and The Sum marks the lowest entry point I’ve seen into his wines.  The last vintage of the Sum that I tried was the 2010 which I thoroughly enjoyed and rated 89 Points.  This 2012 though is a step up and was specially priced $3 off at my Costco bringing the already reasonable normal $18.99 price tag down to $15.99, making it one of the best bargains I’ve seen in the warehouse in a while.

This wine is comprised of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petite Sirah and 10% Syrah.  The wine pours an inky purple, dark but you are able to see through it slightly in good light. Floral nose with some dried fruit and herbs.  In the mouth the wine is full bodied and rich, but balanced nicely between the varietals.  Flavors of dark fruit, noted blueberry, jammy, black cherry with some cigar box cedar and a dry fruity finish.  For fans of big fruit packed California reds, this will be right up your alley.  Be sure to look for it soon and hopefully you can still find the special $3 off pricing at your Costco.

CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 90 Points

Costco item number: 505449

Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA (Cumberland)