Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

Adam's thoughts: This seemed to have a fuller flavor than similarly priced wines. Whereas others seem to waver between the taste of alcohol and water as major contributors to the conversation, this let the actual grapes say quite a bit. Incidentally, aeration made a marked difference between a tart flavor and something much more pleasant. Overall, a pretty nice bottle for around $10.

Puri's thoughts: For the price range, this was a nice bottle of wine! The smell maybe had a little bit of a sour aroma (nothing bad about that), but the taste was mild, even, and consistent. This is one of the first wines where when I tasted it, I felt like I knew which fruit flavor was there; here, I can taste black cherries. Mild and even is a good description for this bottle, and I look forward to enjoying it and making it a "safe go-to".

14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Adam's Thoughts: The label claims hints of currant and cherry, though they may be too subtle to pass through the much stronger alcohol note. I suppose that certain shortcomings can be overlooked for a bottle costing less than $10, yet it is always a disappointment when a wine seems to have rejected the very idea of fruit as a flavor.

Puri's Thoughts: Although Adam has some problems with the bottle, I actually am kinda fond of it! The bitterness is only at the beginning of the "taste", where it then rides out to a mild-flavor to finish it off. The flavor is nowhere near heavy nor dry, which makes drinking it enjoyable for me. Adam is right though, as I would of enjoyed the taste of fruit more if it was stronger.