This is the sort of red that Robert Parker loves. Let him love it. It’s pure, 100 per cent Carignan, which in BC makes it something of a rarity and a talking point. But the 15 per cent alcohol, the heady fruit notes, the nearly fortified wine-ness of it all, we found it tedious and predictable. And with just nothing unique or wonderful or striking to boot, despite expectations. A case for general consumption at a BBQ would be lauded.  Sipping over a medium rare ribeye, not so much.  I believe Parker referred to it as a “sexy, voluptuous beauty.” Well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Price: A nicely comfortable $13 USD. You can’t beat that for value. On value alone I agree with Parker: 92 points. Hell, 100 points on value.

Market Liquidity: Ready to wear but not bespoke.