This wine is aimed directly at new wine drinkers, proudly announced by its "California Republic" appellation, echoing a current fashion trend in the west. It’s what I like to call a back door wine, as opposed to a gateway wine. Gateway wines get you in and tasting, but back door wines are the ones that take you out of the introductory room and into a "better quality environment." It’s bright and correct in both aroma and flavor profiles, with good acidity, and a long finish that is fairly oaky, but it’s not in the way of the fruit. A Platinum Award winner at the 2015 Critics Challenge International Wine Competition.
Three Thieves, California (United States) Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
By Rich Cook