Let’s start with the label. Impuls—I think? Hard to tell, because whoever designed the font clearly handed the job to a medieval scribe halfway through a wine tasting flight. I squinted at it like I was deciphering ancient scrolls, only to flip the bottle over and find—blessedly—legible information on the back. Thank you, back label, for saving me from opening Google Translate: Cursive Edition. Also, shoutout for actually listing the grape types: 71% Syrah, 29% Cab. A rare act of honesty in a world of wine mystery blends.
Now, the wine itself. Coming in at a sneaky 14.5% ABV, it’s got some horsepower under the hood, but it’s surprisingly well-behaved. No alcohol punch to the face here. Instead, it’s a pretty dry red with just the whisper of fruit and jam—not enough to be sweet, just enough to keep it interesting. I also got a faint nose of oak or maybe just “generic tree.” It didn’t try too hard, which I respect. Not every wine needs to show up in a top hat and recite its tasting notes like poetry.
I originally poured this as an after-dinner “I deserve this” glass, and it fit the vibe perfectly—smooth, mellow, and not out to steal the spotlight. The second night, I paired it with a heroic portion of leftover steak and some cheesy pasta (because nothing says “classy” like beef and noodles reheated in a microwave), and guess what? Still good. The wine held its own like a champ, mellow and balanced, and didn’t suddenly turn into vinegar overnight like some drama-queen reds.
For $9.99, this Columbia Valley blend is kind of a win. It’s like that friend who shows up late, slightly disheveled, but ends up being the most chill person at the party. Best part is there is no shame in opening it on a weeknight while telling yourself it’s “for the antioxidants.” I would definitely buy it again—and probably misread the label again too.
So here’s to Impuls—the wine that looks like a font-based prank but drinks like a solid, low-key winner. Cheers, and may all your impulse buys be this drinkable.
Types of Grapes: 71% Syrah, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon
ABV % / Fun Juice Level: 14.5%
Origin: Columbia Valley, WA
Grocery Outlet Price: $9.99
