WHAT: This outstanding bargain tastes like wine that sells for three or four times the price. It is full of ripe fruit, without being the high-alcohol fruit bomb that some high-end cabernets have become. It starts with a whiff of mocha, cherry, licorice and even some cola.
On the palate, it offers deep, rich fruit flavors, highlighted by blackberry, cherry and spices. It is nicely balanced between fruit and tannin; smooth, with a mellow feel in the mouth. The finish lingers nicely.
The name refers to the 337 grape clone, the most widely grown cabernet grape in the Bordeaux region of France. The vines were taken to Lodi, Calif., and grown in rocky soil in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
GOES WITH: This is the perfect steak wine. It also goes well with other hearty roasted meats, probably even a thick salmon filet on the grill. It also pairs well with a good pizza.
This wine goes down easy by itself, but when you pair it with food, the tastes explode all over your mouth.
Wine Events
Friday
Friday wine fest, Vineyard Wine Market, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Saturday
Saturday wine fest, Vineyard Wine Market, 1-6 p.m., at least six wines tasted.
Tuesday
Dinner at Broad Street Market with Rombauer Vineyards. A five-course meal paired with Rombauer wines, and Rombauer's national sales manager will be the host. Call Toast Wine and Beverages for reservations, (706) 922-8627. $100 per person.
Friday, Sept. 5
- Mexican beer dinner at the Marriott. Reservations through Ninth Street Wine Market, (706) 724-1442. $39.
- In-shop First Friday tasting, Wine World, 5-8 p.m.
- Friday wine fest, Vineyard Wine Market, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 6
Saturday wine fest, Vineyard Wine Market, 1-6 p.m., at least six wines tasted.
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