This wine seemed to be everywhere over the past few months. It was first featured as the wine of the month at my local wine shop, then later appeared at Costco for $19.99, and just a few weeks ago this wine was featured as one of Wine Spectator's Top 100 wines of 2016 (#32).
I have been sitting on two bottles for about three weeks, one from the wine club and another purchased at Costco, before I dug into it last night and discovered that it is indeed a fantastic buy and one that I wish I would have bought more of. This is going to be hard to find now that it really hit the limelight on the Wine Spectator list.
For those lucky enough to still find it, here's what this one is all about. It's a Columbia Valley Cabernet, 100% Cab, very well made for a $20 wine. Vibrant nose with aromas of black tea and dried fruit. The feel in the mouth is where this wine shines. It's gentle, silky; actually feels about 3-4 years older than it is. Flavors are big, excellent fruit, sour cherry, raspberry, a little spicy, strong finish. Nothing not to like here, especially at the price point. Cool label just a bonus.
CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 91 Points
Costco item number: 1075202
Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA
Alc. 14.5%
Joe Roberts says
Have never paid any attention to this wine but thanks to your review I picked up a bottle--- for several dollars cheaper than you referenced--- and found it to be a big, rich, ready to drink Cab---- their website says that they left it on the skins for nine months---- very nice result. Tannins are well resolved into the wine---not sure how that happens with a wine this young. In any event, I'm heading back for more.
Cyndi Whtie says
Interesting. I have not seen this wine at all at the wine shops I frequent in the Cincinnati/NKY area, but I will keep my eyse open!
David M says
Found it at third Costco store I tried in Phoenix this week. Thought it was good, but not a 92 nor worth the $17.99 listed at. Bought 3 returned 2. Guess I just have different tastes as this one was a big build up at Costco also.
Editor says
The following is a note re: the '15 vintage that Michael, a reader in TN emailed:
Wanted to add a comment to the Intrinsic Cab review from last December. Word to the wise, the 2015 isn't anywhere near as good as the 2014. I bought a bottle yesterday in Franklin, Tennessee Costco and it was really lame. Flabby, uninspired, very very average. Paid $18 and it tasted like any other $10 bottle of cab.
Just thought I could save some others money and let them know to pick another bottle.