Cocobon 2011 ($7) - Red Blend

The Cocobon Red Blend is one I've seen come across various blogs for years now. It has a huge loyal following and is right up there as a TJ cult favorite with the likes of the Rabbit Ridge and Chariot Gypsy. As I've mentioned before, I'm a sucker for a blend - and the more varietals the better. They like to call this one a propriety blend, but with a little snooping around looks like we're dealing with Zin and Cab Franc (2 varietals that are approachable young) as the main players with Merlot, Petite Verdot and Petite Syrah rounding things out - however the Zin dominates with over 60%. From California and enters the ring at a modest 12.5% alcohol. Fruity on the nose and down it goes. Cherry and vanilla are the two things by far that stand out to me, with a hit of cocoa as well. Finish had light to medium tannins with a little stony at the end. Alcohol and acidity low and very easy drinking. With 6 parts Zin I thought it might be too jammy but it isn't. Tasty, smooth, medium bodied with a few different things going on, although not overly complex. A very nice glass to enjoy with the neighbors on a Friday night where nobody has to think too hard about what they're drinking. VERDICT: Get it and enjoy!