Posted on: July 7, 2009 Posted by: Jay NeuFutur Comments: 0

Don Simon is the first wine that we have gotten for review that has been in a normal, recyclable plastic bottle. It is also Spain’s highest selling wine. The first thing that should be said is that the wine’s flavor has not been modified in the slightest; there is not a plastic or similar flavor profile present in each bottle. Of course, there needs to be some discussion of the wine in this review, and this Cabernet Merlot is created with equal shares of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

The Don Simon brings forth the best bits and pieces of both varietals; where the boldness of the Cabernet Sauvignon threatens to offend, the softer Merlot saves the day. The complex style brought forth by the Cabernet Merlot here will worth with whatever is plated, meaning that imbibers can serve up fish, fowl, steak, or seafood and have this wine be a good fit. The price point for this wine (many should be able to find it around well under $10) and its novel new bottle should be more than enough of a reason to pick it up. However, there is a reason why this wine is Spain’s biggest seller: it is a very unique wine that succeeds equally well in whatever role the purchaser intends for it.

I would like to see the wine industry move toward these PET bottles, especially considering that there are no problems to be had in terms of taste, body, or overall experience. If the transition from cork to screwtop can occur, there is no reason why the old glass bottles cannot go the way of the dinosaur. I personally cannot wait to taste some of the other releases from Don Simon, and until that point, will be sure to pick up a bottle of the Cabernet Merlot whenever we have a social or otherwise wine-worthy event.

Rating: 7.7/10

Don Simon Class Cabernet Merlot (25 Proof) / Wine / http://www.donsimon.com

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