Zolo Signature Red 2012 Wine Review

It's always nice to see an old favorite wine. Such was the case when I entered one of my favorite wine stores (Cellar Rat, downtown Kansas City) and found this Zolo Signature Red 2012 from Mendoza, Argentina. The Zolo winery is a progeny of Fincas Patagonicus, one of the most technologically advanced wineries in Argentina, where wine is sustainably produced. 

Check out that view!

The winery's signature wine is Malbec (duh), but they also produce this blend which contains Cabernet Sauvignon, Bonarda, Merlot and Malbec grapes. It has a very dark, opaque garnet color. I pick up aromas of coffee and smoky cranberries. Lots of mocha flavor envelopes the palate, leading into tart cherries, earthy herbs and a tiny bite of peppery heat. The finish is long and rich with chocolate covered cherries. And, I have a feeling it will be even better tomorrow, after it's had a day to soften.

What I like about this wine is that it does not have the fruity sweetness of most blends, so it will work with just about any food. Oddly enough, though, what I thought as I was sipping it was how well its solid tannins would work with rich lobster or crab dishes dripping in buttery sauces. Or, most assuredly with my all-time favorite stew, cioppino... and, yes, I'm talking about pairing fish with a red wine... I'm a rebel like that! 

I was surprised to find out it is rated between 86 and 90 by professional critics, yet I paid only $13/bottle. However, what was most telling was the high praise given by the everyday wine lover. I highly recommend this as an all-around versatile wine for almost any occasion, but it has 13.8% alcohol, so please drink responsibly.