Chateau Palmer in the Margaux region of Bordeaux produces stunning wines, and this is the most affordable jumping off point into their wines that you’re going to find.
The Alter Ego is priced at $59.99 at Costco, which is about $5 less than most online outlets, and $15 less than I saw it at Total Wine.
And although it’s not cheap, it really is worth the splurge; I found it to be gorgeous all around, and even though it’s rather young, many of the ’14 Bordeaux are drinking pretty good right now, this one being a case in point.
The Alter Ego is a left bank wine, but the blend is right bank Merlot based coming in at 52% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Petit Verdot.
The nose begins with ripe fruit and soil; flavors of red berries, raspberry and cherry, a little cola, and spice; finishes as dry as can be; a great ride from nose to finish.
Although it’s drinking great now, this one can definitely be laid down in the cellar for a few more years. I tasted an ’09 Alter Ego last month that was absolutely delicious.
At the price, I’d say this wine is drinking at least 2X its pay grade, particularly comparing to Napa wines in the $100-$125 range.
And while this second wine from Chateau Palmer is amazing, I’ve tried several of their estate wines and they are even more layered, structured and complex; and with a price tag to go with it.
If you’re looking for a special bottle this holiday season, you won’t do much better for the money than this Alter Ego from Chateau Palmer. I’m a big fan.
CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 93 points (a CostcoWineBlog Top Pick)
Costco item number: 1132466 ($59.99)
Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA
Alc. 13.5%