Wine Wednesday - 2006 Couples & Co Sangiovese

This little gem was brought to me by my wife's family member and kindred spirit Russ, who enjoys the finer epicurean things in life. Russ has been a great resource for good food and drink in the Bay Area and always has a new suggestion or treasure to share.

This Sangiovese has shown up a few times at various meals and has always been a great choice to pair with dinner. I've enjoyed it with a nice prime rib and a dry-rub BBQ chicken...definitely better with the red meat but tasty nonetheless.

2006 Couples & Co Sangiovese, California

This Sangiovese has a dark ruby color with skinny legs.

The nose gives a balance fruity aroma with a hint of smoke and clove. After breathing awhile, it opens to a bit more earthy with some other spices.

Tasting gives a cherry and nice acidity with hints of some earthiness. Lot of other berry-fruit comes through near the end. The texture is pretty smooth and some soft tannins make it a very well-balanced wine.

The Couples & Co Sangiovese is a big, yet balance red that is approachable to all palettes. Definitely pairs well with the red meats but a great to any dinner dish. I could see this going very well with a spicy pasta dish.

Notes from the winemaker
California (60% Napa Valley, 40% Lodi)
Fruit: 82% Sangiovese, 18% Bordeaux varietals
Winemaking: Partially punch cap fermented in open tanks, followed by more than two years of oak aging
Bottled: 2006, 1050 cases produced

Cost: $24-$32