I, like many people, never used to like red wine. I found it too dry and it gave me terrible hangovers the following day. However, I like a drink and when I read in a paper that a glass of red wine a day is good for you (ok - any excuse!) I decided to start trying a few.
The Bottle
It was the label on the bottle that appealed to me and made me want to try it. It's a very simple design in red and gold and states the name (Blossom Hill - obviously) and the country of origin (California USA). It was the fact that it says "soft and fruity" that made me think that maybe this one wouldn't taste like vinegar. On the back of the bottle is another label telling you a little about the taste of the wine and reassuring you off the quality of the grapes.
The Colour and Smell
The wine is a gorgeous, dark red colour which looks like blackcurrant juice. I'm not one for all this wine tasting guff that you hear on TV, but I'll have a go. I think it smells like those bags of summer fruits that you can get in the freezer section. It seems to have hints of blackberries and raspberries and smells really fresh.
The Taste
Well it really is exactly what it says on the bottle: soft and fruity. It tastes quite mellow and fairly sweet for a red wine. Its got a hint of tartness, just as you get if you eat blackcurrants or blackberries, but doesn't taste at all vinegary. I can drink a full bottle easily and it's a nice basis for a fruit punch or Sangria.
The Price and Availability
I bought my bottle for £2.99 on sale in the dreaded but useful Kwiksave. Usually it's £3.49 in here and most other places. I have paid over £5.00 for a bottle in a local off license but I did't mind too much as it has become my favourite tipple. It's widely available and you can even buy it by the bottle in some pubs.
Ability to Turn You Into A Giggling Idiot
At 13% alcohol content it's got exceptional ability! - and be warned - one glass is supposed to be good for you, one bottle is likely to give you a huge headache and make your breath smell like Ghandi's flipflop in the morning!
Pictures of Blossom Hill Red
not as nice as the real thing!
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Dec 3rd, 2003
(Dec 4th, 2003)
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