Everyone’s favorite day of the week when I have an excuse to drink… I mean review wine has returned. That’s right Wednesday’s Wine of the Week is back and better than ever.  I’ve had over a year to refine my palate and delve further into the wonderful world of affordable wine.

Recently I’ve been exploring different wine blends.  I find that they tend to harmoniously marry the best qualities of their individual components. Being that it is supposedly winter and cold outside in New Jersey, I have been gravitating towards red wine blends.  I find the full bodied flavor perfect for those chilly evening like Christmas Eve when it is a unbearable 70 degrees outside.  The rich notes and deep flavors really warm you up in your shorts and t-shirt.

All kidding aside, I have found some notably good selections; this week’s pick included.  It is an inexpensive and budget friendly red wine that goes by the name of Sterling.  Bottled in 2013 for their Vitners collection, this Bordeaux style blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, and Petite Verdo to create a rather velvety red.

The decadent body has a juicy mouth feel with multiple layers of complexity.  The unctions blend boasts notes of cherry chocolate, blackberry, black raspberry and vanilla. Each sip packs sultry punch, with a delicate lingering finish that leaves you wanting more.   In short, pretty much what you’d get if you bottled a woman.

Despite the amount of sweet undertones, it is actually a tad on the dry side.  To be honest I was expecting a sweeter wine, but the sightly tart aftertaste adds a savory finish.  Personally,  I enjoy pairing a glass with a thick steak.  The lush flavor offers the perfect complement to the smoky taste of grilled meet.  For you non meat eaters, a robust and earthy vegetable like mushrooms or eggplant would be delicious as well. Whatever you decide to drink it with I hope you enjoy!