Karl Lawrence Aldin Red Table Wine

I took this to lunch with my staff from the office. Still vibrant, but probably at the end of its best window. The tannins had smoothed out to almost non-existent and it needed no decanting or waiting. Popped and poured and excellent at first sip. Nice nose, but somewhat muted but lots of red fruits on the palate; red currant and raspberrys. Lots of Merlot in this blend. Reminded me of a mature St. Emilion. Mid palate was nice, but …

Still suprisingly vibrant with lots of fruit. Tannins have smoothed out so to be almost unnoticeable. Nice mid palate strength and moderate length. Definitely a lot of merlot in the blend. A very nice wine that is probably nearing the end of its "sweet spot."

Think there was plenty of merlot in the blend this year. Decent red fruit with a medium finish. Juicy.

Nice dark color and good nose, but a completely non-existent mid-palate. Too much merlot in the blend for my liking (it made it seem a bit too soft). The consensus from all eight people that tasted was that is was a "nice" wine.

I think onelastsyrah's note is a good characterization of this wine. Best Aldin I've tasted to date.

14.2% ABV. Translucent dark garnet in the glass. Reticent dry French oak nose with a spice note and a certain sweetness of fruit underneath. Dry leaves and old cinnamon. Medium full bodied with classy red currant fruit and some leafy mocha nuances. I agree with their sales brochure, this might be best Aldin red yet. I suspect this will benefit from a couple years in the cellar as well. 91-92.