Wine Wednesday - 2011 Arabella Cabernet Sauvignon

So about a year ago, Ashley came across a Groupon that was for wine. Well not only was it for wine, but it was for Naked Wines. Naked Wines is a cool little company that basically crowd sources "Angels" or investors that then the proceeds are put towards smaller, independent wine makers. These can include  backyard brewers to professionals from a larger vineyard experimenting to international winemakers trying to get their brand out and distributed and make it on Naked Wines radar.

The great part about Naked Wines is their business model: you "invest" (which is basically a wine club) and with your investments, you get wine at pretty remarkable prices. Each wine you get asks you to rate it so when choosing future wines you can get a good feel for what others think. Most bottles are in the $10 range and most likely could sell for more. I'd say out of all the types we've tried, only 1 or 2 haven't appealed to us. Either way you can try some great wines, sourced from all over the world for fantastic prices.

That brings us to today's wine, the 2011 Arabella Cabernet Sauvignon. This little cab is from the Robertson Wine Valley in Western Cape, South Africa made by Stephen De Wet. The De Wet family and winemaking go back to 1697 when the first De Wet settler was appointed cellarmaster of the Dutch East India Company. It is our now go-to affordable Cabernet Sauvignon when we're in the mood or enjoying with friends. We definitely will order more of the next vintage when it becomes available.

2011 Arabella Cabernet Sauvignon, Western Cape, South Africa

Dark burgundy color with good legs.

Very bright and lush berries on the nose that started a little acidic until it had opened a bit.

The taste begins with a hit of dark skinned berries and a rich plum at the end, that finishes it up nicely in my opinion. It is smooth but not too bold.

Fairly simple Cabernet, not overtly complex, and drinkable now, no reason to let it sit for a few more years although I would be interested in seeing how it develops (though I doubt we'd let that happen).

Notes from the winemaker
Western Cape, South Africa
Alcohol: 13.8%
Tasting Notes: This smooth red wine has abundant blackcurrant aromas. It offers a juicy mouthful of red plum and berry flavors. Delightfully versatile, this wine partners well with grilled ribs, hamburgers and pasta dishes.

Cost: $8-$12