Angel of Mercy
Finding a solid, satisfying Cabernet Sauvignon for around $10 these days has proven (at least to me) to be one illusive road to red wine happiness. Of the cabs that I’ve tried so far this year, many have been noticeably concocted into a sweet black cherry mess, while others have been razor-thin in the taste department, and a few others fell into the category of “Cabernet Sauvig-what?” Could it be that I’ve set my expectations way too high in finding a brawny, relatively complex and interesting, everyday Cab that doesn’t suck, for less than $15?!
Fortunately, the folks at Montes Winery, headquartered in Chile, have answered my prayers with their 2008 “Classic Series” Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2008 Montes “Classic Series” Cabernet Sauvignon has renewed my hope and given me the desire to turn the page to seek out more top of the line, grade-A, inexpensive Cabernets like this one.
Consisting of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot, this particular wine was aged in oak for 6 months. The 2008 Montes “Classic Series” Cabernet Sauvignon delivers a respectable serving of dark fruit flavors, alluring spices with chocolate notes that are very appealing and perfect for just about any day or time. It also will pair quite nicely with a variety of grilled foods and late-night snacks.
3 stars out 4. Restored my faith that there are Cabs costing less than 15 bucks that taste great! Look for the wine label with the benevolent looking angel on it.
(Price: $10.49)
Posted in 3-Star, Reviews-Wine | 
Tags: 2008, 3-Star, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile, Montes, Red Wine, Wine Reviews, Wines under $20
19 Responses to “Angel of Mercy”
Not a bad price for good wine.
@Sean It seems we have similar tastes! http://www.winelife365.com/hess-collection-cabern… Cheers!!
Not a bad price for good wine.
Hess Select Cab is very good, and under $15.
Shoot…with economy as it is…a bottle of wine shouldn't be more than $10. After all it cost less than $5, an empty bottle with a label, cork & cap. Wineries/vineyards then fill each bottle with wine and place a market value on each bottle of yummy wine. Not to mention sales tax & shipping/handling fee. Bottle your own wine or make your own wine. It's more fun and cost less.I know this as a fact. Enjoy.
@Sean It seems we have similar tastes! http://www.winelife365.com/hess-collection-cabernet-sauvignon-2006/ Cheers!!
My personal fav is Redwood Creek Cab…very good & usually priced reasonable!!!
i will give redwood creek a shot. ty
So true, wine life, most Cab's under $10 are a mish mosh…You just can't find a geographically specific Cab under 17 or 18 bucks….any big Red that comes from broad area's ie: 'California' is gonna disappoint, unless you are already buzzin' and your palate is be-fuddled.
Santa Rita Medalla Real 2007 (Historic Vintage) Cab is great value for the price 19.99$ (Canadian Dollars) I'm sure you folks down south get it for half the price. Wine prices in Canada are criminal.
I prefer a good Zin or Shiraz myself…
Me too!
No, Merlot is the best!
Recently attended the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival… Argentina MALBEC!!! Check out Bodegas Catena. No, reallly….Wine Spectator "SMART BUY" '07 MALBEC
I have tried both Montes Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and I've been very impressed with them, especially for the price. I mostly drink Merlot, but recently I've been venturing into Cabs, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir.
I've been drinking Shiraz for ± 2 years now, and each time I try another one, I'm disappointed. But for someone who likes Cabernet Sauvignon, I must confess that this Montes classic series 2008 is more than acceptable.
Thanks Raymond for commenting and sharing your thoughts on the Montes Cab. Have you come across any recent new discoveries?
If you want to splurge, try the Montes Alpha series. It’s about $18 at Costco but well worth the extra. We made the mistake of trying both series at the same time. It spoiled me!
You're making me thirsty Brad!
Thanks for sharing! Will definitely be trying the Alpha series soon – maybe on Christmas day!
Cheers and happy holidays to you!