Cupcake Vineyards Red Velvet

We first received this wine as a gift.

From the description on the bottle we thought it would be sweet . . . 

Experience a wine as rich, soft and elegant as red velvet. Our Red Velvet blend delivers over-the-top aromas of chocolate, deep dark blackberries and luscious red fruits that follow through to the palate. Finish with a hint of coconut and creamy mocha that shows unmistakable intensity and length. Red Velvet combines Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah. Each varietal adds distinct characteristics and lends structure, aroma and depth of flavor. We ferment each varietal separately before blending. Finally, a unique oak regime infuses creaminess. {Cupcake Vineyard ~ California}

What a pleasant surprise that it was just to our liking . . . 

a dry blend with a nice warm finish.

a smooth easy drinking wine.

Who can say no to a "cupcake"?

{a bargain at $8.99}

If you invite us for a porch sit

we'll bring it along . . . .

bolla valpolicella

We recently tried this wine on sale at Publix.

Then . . . we bought more.

From the bottle:
"For more than a century Bolla wines have been recognized for trusted quality. Made with hand-picked grapes from northern Italy's Veneto region, Bolla Valpolicella offers berry, almond, raisin, and spicy black-cherry flavors.

12.0% Alcohol"

From their website:
This sumptuous wine has flavors of berries, cherries and almonds, enhanced with subtle oak, vanilla and spice complexity from aging in new oak casks. This wine pairs well with rich pastas, grilled red meats, salmon, and soft cheeses.

Valpolicella is a new variety to us and we really enjoyed it. 

($9.99 on sale)