I know it’s August and it’s 100 degrees outside on a good day, but I have a hankering for a great big California Cabernet Sauvignon. I was walking through one of our fabulous ABC stores the other day and thought to myself, I’m in the mood for a big red wine. Who cares how hot it is outside? So, what can I do?  I can turn my a/c down and open up one of those big guys to quench my thirst.  And that is exactly what I did.

A few nights ago I bought a few chesses, sliced some deli meats, and had a light dinner with big red.  I brought home Shannon Ridge Home Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon. I know I’ve talked about Shannon Ridge wines before but, what can I say?  This is one of my favorites.  The wine comes from Lake County California—close to Mendocino. I open the bottle with great hope that this is exactly what I wanted—and I was so right! The deep ruby color with the velvety long finish is perfect for what I was looking for.  I couple that with raspberry, dark cherry, and a finish of light vanilla and I have a great dinner tonight.

If you get a chance to get into an ABC store, you don’t have to stop at the Cabernet—we carry lots of wines from Clay Shannon.  If you want to stay with the heat of summer and you like Sauvignon Blanc—we have the Vigilance on sale for the ridiculous price of $7.99. Many stores have it on their wine taps this month to taste.  We are also carrying a new single vineyard Barbera, and that is just to name a couple.  Come in and ask about Cross Springs, Vigilance or Shannon Ridge.  We have everything I’ve mentioned and more—Chardonnay, Red Blends, Cabernets, Petite Sirah, and even Zinfandels.   Everything you need for a great wine experience, including my favorite:  Shannon Ridge Home Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon!

Kathleen Anderson, Northwest Florida wine supervisor

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