Grapegal's Current Favorite... Coppola Claret

I hate to play favorites... but I have to confess that there is one wine lately I am finding that stands above the rest of its similarly priced companions. It is Francis Coppola's 2004 Claret. I wrote about the Coppola wines a couple of months ago when I tried them in a tasting. Since then, I've been buying them regularly, and when I drink something else, I often find myself wishing I were drinking the Coppola Claret instead.

Claret is the British term for "clear red" - a cabernet-based wine, blended with small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. It smells WONDERFUL and unusual - I'd described it once as "lavender packed in moth balls" but I realize that doesn't sound appetizing. It smells smoky and fruity all at once. The taste is rich and smooth, flavorful, but not overpowering. A totally drinkable wine - well balanced, and in my book, just plain delicious. I couldn't tell you exactly what it is about this wine that I find so appealing... you'll have to try a bottle for yourself. Priced at under $20 (often under $15), it's an affordable pleasure.