Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2010

After a recent wine tasting, I was given a leftover bottle of a familiar label I've not tried before... Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2010. I think the reason I've resisted is because Columbia Crest is ubiquitous, which always makes me think very little craftsmanship has gone into its creation.  Plus, it also bottles under the label of Two Vines, which I have tried and didn't like. However, this Cab is a great all purpose wine, with enough legs to work with food, but not so overwhelming it can't be enjoyed on its own. It begins with some minty floral notes in the aroma. The taste starts earthy, but follows up with a bit of semi-sweet chocolate, dark cherries and a touch of coffee, adding herbs on a nice finish with medium tannins. Wine Spectator rated it a "Best Buy" with 89 points; Wine Enthusiast rated it 88. SRP is $12, so it's a very affordable choice I will make in the future.