Wine-o: Review from my Father, the California Conoisseur

Franzia Caberbet Sauvignon, 2011 CHILE

Alcohol: 12.5%

The Franzia wine is a collection of unknown vintages that have been developed since 1906, more than a century ago.  I, Andrew, friend and part-time keeper of the wolf-hound, Joy, am happy to explain to all of you some of the unique qualities of this wine.  

There is little known about this 5-liter box-wine. Millions of gallons are produced annually using grapes gleaned from 1000s of acres of old vines growing on the sun-drenched Chilean mountains. It is made using various processes that are unknown to the general public. Most impressive is that all these gallons were fermented and boxed in less than twelve months!

I am having a very difficult time trying to explain this wine. The aromas were delicate and muted, as might be expected from a generic red created by blending perhaps as many as 20 vintages from vineyards nestled intimately amongst the rocky crags of the Andes Mountains. There are delicate scents of - grapes - and more grapes. A grapey odor and taste that lingers delightfully in the mouth. However, it definitely requires aeration, and even then I was less than impressed.

I served this wine with breakfast - okay, Sunday brunch - and found the subtle (very subtle) flavors of currants and other fruit did not instantly remind me of anything. The wine is actually quite smooth. It is not harsh. Therefore, it is doubtful that additional years will improve this melange du vin.

Cost: ~ $12.98 per 5-liter box (about seven 750-ml bottles for about $2/bottle, or 40-cents per glass)  in Southern California, bought from the Albertson's location in Corona, CA. This is a great deal if you purchase it alone or with additional boxes. It is always on sale!