A basic crowd-pleaser with a bit of residual sugar, we review the Mbali Cape Red Blend from Trader Joe’s.
A red blend consisting of 70% Pinotage, 20% Cinsaut and 10% Petite Sirah from the Western Cape of South Africa. The wine has some sort of oak influence but there’s no information available as to how much or what kind.
The Mbali Cape Red Blend is available exclusively at Trader Joe’s for just $5.99. It is imported by Amphora Imports.
From the winery:
2024 Mbali Cape Red Blend
This Cape Red Blend of Pinotage, Cinsaut and Petite Sirah is medium to full-bodied with a good balance between fruit and oak. The flavors of rich dark cherry, plum and blackberry lead to a lingering finish with hits of vanilla and spice. Pairs well with red meat, lamb and hard cheese.
Integrity and Sustainability Certified through the Wine and Spirits Board of South Africa
Produced and Bottled by Zidela Wines
14% AlcoholWould You Like To Save This?
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The 2024 Mbali Cape Red Blend opens with an inviting aroma of black cherry, licorice, a little baking spice and a little cranberry. It’s a good start.
Tasting the wine reveals it to be medium-bodied, refreshing and very easy to drink with similar flavors to the nose. This would be good with a slight chill. Style-wise it reminds me of a basic Beaujolais. There seems to be a bit of residual sugar in the mix too. It’s quite simple but also a crowd-pleaser.
It ends mostly dry and soft on the decent length finish and was similar on day 2.
As always you can find an updated list of our recommended wines from Trader Joe’s as well as more info on their pricing model and some tips and tricks for shopping the store in our giant guide.
You can also find more of our favorite South African wines here!
Review Summary
Mbali Cape Red Blend From Trader Joe's • Reverse Wine Snob
A basic crowd-pleaser with a bit of residual sugar, we review the Mbali Cape Red Blend from Trader Joe's.
7
Pros
- Would be good with a slight chill
- Reminds me of a basic Beaujolais
- Cheap!
Cons
- Very simple
