2012 Cosentino The Temp

Cosentino Winery was founded in 1980 by Mitch Cosentino, a one-time wine wholesaler. With four acres in Oakville and 25 leased acres in Napa Valley Cosentino built a winery in Oakville. The estate became known for Cabernet Sauvignon and especially Merlot. Cosentino makes an Estate Merlot which is only released in vintages when conditions are optimal. Today Cosentino is owned by Vintage Wine Estates, a Santa Rosa based consortium of family founded wineries. Cosentino makes a broad portfolio of red and white wines, including blends which often come with inventive names, such as a red Bordeaux-style blend called “The Poet.”

Think leather and cherries together for Tempranillo wines. This wine looks lighter than it is. It can be medium or full bodied, but its thin-skinned, big grapes, give it a more transparent appearance. It is grown in Spain, Portugal, the U.S. and Australia.