The 2007 vintage of this wine was an absolute standout when I reviewed it two years ago.  For $10, it may have been the best inexpensive red wine I found at Costco during the whole year.  I was really excited to see it back in stores now, in the 2009 vintage, and it was even $2 cheaper this time at only $7.99.

This current vintage follows suit to a large degree but I found the flavor a little more muted and reserved than I remember the 2007 vintage being (I wish I still had one of those to compare with).  That’s not to say this isn’t a good wine.  I believe it is, and it is a heck of a bargain for the price point.

The nose really hints at great things to come; smells like a more expensive Spanish red, floral with some earth and spice. The wine poured a little clearer than I was expecting yet it felt pretty big in the mouth.  The flavor comes through brilliantly.  Tons of red fruit, cherry, strawberry, a little cherry Nibs candy flavor as the wine settles in the mouth.  Finishes really nice, long and deep like few bottles under $10 do.

Overall, maybe my expectations were a bit high. The wine does feel just a tad watered down to me.  But at this price I can’t complain too much.  It’s a great buy for the money, just not as strong as year’s past in my opinion.  I know this wine is a reader favorite, and seems to be available at Costcos nationwide.  Let me know what you think.

CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 88 Points (down from 90 points in 2007 vintage)

Costco item number: 641243