I have enjoyed this wine for a number of years now, it's always a good value and the vineyards are farmed biodynamiclly. They offer a number of different bottlings that range from widely sourced grapes in the Columbia Valley to single vineyard sites.
The '15 vintage of CMS is composed of 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 65% Merlot, and 8% Syrah.
When first opened the Merlot shows first with bright notes of cherry, plum, and some spice in the nose, the Cabernet starts to show up with a hint of blackberry after 15 - 20 minutes. The palate was very pleasant with matching flavors, quite smooth, and a pleasant finish of fruit flavors that fade nicely.
Day 2 brought out the Syrah, with the deeper, wild notes that Syrah from WA can have. There's more blackberries in the nose, and a bigger mouthfeel with the cherry, plum, and blackberry flavors more evenly balanced, culminating in a spicy/peppery finish.
The wine on day 2 begs for a Delmonico steak with simple salt and pepper seasoning, finished with a pat of garlic herb butter, or a peppercorn crusted steak. Prime rib would also like a seat at the table with this wine...
Pretty good value for an entry level wine that is well made, and even at 4 years old could still last in the cellar for another 2 to 4 years. Available at Total Wine stores for $9.99 per bottle, $8.99 if you buy 6 or more bottles. The NH Liquor outlets have it for $16.99, but it goes on sale there once in a while.
Cheers!
Ed
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