Avondale 2004 Cabernet Franc
South Africa

It’s safe

An interesting wine. Ordered it with dinner at The Element in Front Royal, Va. Overall, enjoyable. Can’t say I was crazy in love with it — but at $20 something a bottle in a restaurant, couldn’t say I didn’t enjoy it. With all the mediocre cabs out there, this probably goes on the “it’s safe” list, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to order it again.

Out the Gate: “it’s a bit spritzy,” some sharp fruit
7th inning stretch: almost over spiced
Finish Line: pepper, pepper and spice
Locker Room: after the pepper and spice, I’m burned out. Need a rinse.

On a final note, the food was incredible. This is a Caesar Salad – a big piece of lettuce, shaved and grated cheese, with olive and garlic on the side.