Here's a Costco wine staple that we enjoy vintage to vintage. And it's a little behind schedule this year, arriving in June vs November 1.5 years ago, when we reviewed the 2017 vintage.
But better late than never, and we have high hopes for this 2018 vintage. Great news right off the bat is the price stayed the same at $15.99.
The blend again is Merlot, Malbec, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon, and they do such a good job bringing these grapes together. That hodgepodge could really go sideways fast, and long time readers know we're not always a fan of these types of blends. Smith & Hook consistently does it right though.
The wine is a dark ruby in the glass, dark berry fruit and wet soil on the nose; full bodied with some good acidity; blueberry and plum flavor leading into a nice dry finish. Really an enjoyable wine all around and a "field" blend that actually stays interesting.
If you aren't yet familiar with Smith & Hook, give these guys a shot; just about any bottle you can find from them. They just seem to max out the bang for the buck we are all looking for.
We reviewed the 2015 vintage of the Smith & Hook blend a while back too and had similar feelings. This one's an easy addition to our Top Picks list.
CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 90 points (a Costco Wine Top Pick)
Costco item number: 1236971
Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA (Kennesaw)
Alc. 14.8%
Henry says
Andrew, didn't find this one today during my Costco run, but did find a 2020 Signature Series Columbia Valley blend. I found your 2014 review and here are some quick differences: Blend is Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah (no sangiovese). Alcohol is down negligible to 14.7%, price is one dime less at $16.89. Also, found the 2020 Kirkland Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon - still $8.99. All these head to the cellar for at least a year so I hope they show up in Atlanta for you to review for all of us.
Editor says
Yes. Me too. I’ll be on the look out. Both of those I bet will be solid. Hope to review and post soon. Cheers.
Kate Moynahan says
Where do you find this wine ? Does Delaware carry it?
Brian B says
Did not find this one at the Northwest Tucson Costco but they just received a huge pallet of the Hook or Crook 2018 Red Field Blend (item 1529759). This wine received a "best buy" 92 points from Wine Enthusiast and 90 from Wine Spectator. Normally a reasonable $10.49 it is currently marked down to $5.49, an exceptional bargain. The wine has medium body, with a good balance of fruit, acid and tannins and a pleasing softness that does not convey as sweetness. It's hard to find a worthwhile everyday drinker for under $100 a case, let alone well under $70 a case. Not sure how well it will keep, it's fully ready to drink now.
Steve Porter says
We had our first bottle of the Smith & Hook Red Blend last week. Good wine for the price. We like Paso wines, and this one fits in, although this wine is considerably lower priced than many that we drink