Recipe Repository

The wine makers at Viña Ventisquero in Rancagua, Chile have cultivated a bold yet balanced Cabernet Sauvignon with a claim to fame: their grape vines are grown on the original European root stock, not grafted onto generic root stock, a practice used in most other parts of the world due to the susceptibility of grapevines to the phylloxera disease. According to Viña Ventisquero’s marketing team, this biological difference is the secret ingredient that accounts for Root: 1’s fruity, rich flavors and aromas.

As a gardener myself, the biological difference is interesting, but ultimately it is the taste of the wine that has inspired me to make this purchase again and again. Root: 1 is indeed bold in flavor, but without being overpowering, harsh, or cloying. The grape, currant, and cherry flavors are nicely balanced against a background of sweetness and a hint of dry finish. The texture of this wine is almost port-like, though the sugars feel natural on the tongue, not contrived. This is a slurpable wine, and one that any red-wine lover will appreciate. At about $11/bottle on average, it is also an amazing deal. Highly recommended.

*This post marks a new era in the Recipe Repository: in addition to posting our own original food recipes and adaptations, Rick and I will be adding reviews of our favorite beverages, from wines, beers, and coffees, to our favorite cocktail concoctions.