Cuvee Don Signia
The Scene: Wine and Beer Westpark Our weekly Thu tasting (8/27)
After a handsome bit of pestering from our favorite Luxembourgian we opened the Benegas Don Tiburcio (Argentina, $13), decanted it, and then presented the wine blind next to the 2003 Joseph Phelps Insignia (Napa, $$$).
Now there’s no arguing that the Don Tiburcio is an exceptional value at $13, as there was no pretending this would be a survey of merit. But, we’re a curious lot, and there was something remarkable in our customer’s reactions to the pair of decanters. Naturally suspicion arose that this was some kind of test to fail, but our novice tasters provided equal curiosity. Suffice it to say, close to an even split for the preferred decanter – some admitted under reluctance, as well.
Then we did the unthinkable – we blended the two wines together. Shock, and awe right? :0
Well, why not? Don Tiburcio’s rich Malbec played well in the smaller Insignia bringing more fruit and cocoa notes to the front, while the overall body of the Argentine blend was subdued by a touch of Napa elegance. Cuvee Don Signia was neither original, but, instead, quite an enjoyable wine all its own.
More importantly, our experiment – which evolved from the simple question “which do you prefer?” – became a deft lesson in the rules of engagement: enjoy wine first. Take pleasure in wine.
Don’t be afraid to have fun, and don’t worry about what other people like – your mouth is always the best judge of what’s best for you! The true luxury of wine is finding gems at every price point, and that’s something you can do everyday. Oh, and don’t be afraid if you spill a blend or two of your own, if the situation calls for it.
Cheers!
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