2021 Carson Ridge - Cabernet Sauvignon

Carson Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon - A Surprising Paso Robles Find

I recently tried the Carson Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon and was pleasantly surprised, especially after my less-than-impressive experience with the more expensive Reserve version. Initially, I didn’t expect much from this more affordable bottle, but I quickly learned not to judge a wine by its label. Priced at just $10, this wine over-delivers in value, offering a quality that competes with higher-priced bottles.

Exploring Paso Robles Cabernet

While I usually lean toward the bold, fruit-forward Cabernets of Napa Valley, Paso Robles wines have been hit or miss for me. However, this one stands out as a hidden gem. It may not be an outstanding wine, but for the price, it holds its own and even surpasses some $20-30 bottles I've felt were money down the drain.

Tasting Notes

Flavor: Fruit-forward profile with prominent blackberries and dark fruit. It has a slight acidity that lends a bit of dryness, balanced by a smooth finish and subtle aftertaste.
Nose: Not particularly strong, though that may be from being opened for a day. Despite that, the wine still tasted fine after a day, which is a plus for budget-friendly options.

Overall, while it may not be a top-tier Cabernet, the Carson Ridge offers satisfying flavor and great value. It's a worthy addition to my list of affordable wines that don’t sacrifice too much quality.

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