So there I was, pulling a bottle from my mini wine rack (which is basically my adult version of a treasure chest) thinking I had selected a big, bold Cabernet Sauvignon—because that’s what one does when there’s a ribeye smoking like a meat-scented love letter to yourself. But plot twist: turns out I grabbed the 2022 Volunteer Red Blend. Not a cab. A blend. Because apparently, I live life on the edge… of disorganization. I braced for disappointment, like when you think you’re biting into a chocolate chip cookie but it’s actually raisin.
But you know what? It actually held up. Was it the heroic, tannin-laced Cabernet of my dreams? No. But it showed up, put on its flavor boots, and said, “I can do this.” A little fruit, a little dryness, and just enough mysterious “wood flavor” to keep things interesting—oak? cedar? pine from a Christmas candle? Who knows. It worked.
At 13.5% ABV, it’s got just enough firepower to remind you it’s not here for conversation. It’s like that one friend who’s not the life of the party, but always brings decent snacks. Respect.
Price? Still a mystery. I think it was one of those under-$10 impulse buys I make when I tell myself I’m “just running in for cheese and tortillas.” I need to double-check that, but honestly, as long as it’s not more than a decent burrito, I’d say it earned its keep. It didn’t sing Stairway to Heaven, but it didn’t crash and burn either. And for a red blend with no pretense and some surprising backbone? That’s a win.
Final verdict: Not the Holy Grail of red blends, but certainly not the killer rabbit either. It may not have said “Ni,” but it did say “Meh… but in a charming way.” Bring it out when you want something functional, drinkable, and unlikely to assault your taste buds. Just remember to actually read the label next time.
Types of Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon & mystery blend
ABV % / Fun Juice Level: 13.5%
Origin: Sonoma, CA
Grocery Outlet Price: $8.99??? I think…..maybe….its possible…not sure….
