The Big Red Monster Cabernet Sauvignon

Drink it now. No need to decant but best to open it half an hour before service. Founded in 1983 by Randall Grahm, Bonny Doon Vineyard is located in Santa Cruz, California. Randall was one of the first Californian winemakers to embrace the Rhone grape, earning him the nickname "The Rhone Ranger". Also he is a leader in biodynamic agriculture. The Big Red Monster Cabernet Sauvignon is a fierceful blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Petite Verdot and 10% Petite Sirah. The grapes are selected in the rugged Paso Robles region where the temperature range between day and night is the highest of all California wine regions. Daytime temperatures can reach over 100 degrees and night temperatures can drop below 30 degrees. The extreme heat results in very intense flavors of dark fruit in jam, and strong alcohol content, while the freezing nights help to maintain the balance of acidity. In the glass, the wine displays dark purple hues, with a ruby edge. The nose has spicy notes, dark berries and light oak notes. It is a full-bodied wine with intense flavors of ripe dark fruit (plum and raspberry), caramel, chocolate and notes of pepper and cloves. The tannins are firm but round and the finish is warm and persistent. It is a wine that goes well with red meat or lamb. Excellent steak wine.

Price: £22.91 from 8wines UK