Style Heavy red New World Country USA (CA) Price $8
Vintage tasted 2009 Grapes Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache, Montepuliciano, Mourvèdre, Sangiovese, Aglianico, Tannat, Nero d’Avola, Sargentino, Touriga, Barbera, Petit Verdot
Website www.bighousewine.com

Overview Big House’s website (complete with jailhouse animation) proudly proclaims that the wine “lives up to that old fruit bomb moniker,” and while that’s true—this thing is packed with ripe fruit and vanilla—it’s still surprisingly balanced. And since it’s packaged in a box, the wine will keep for weeks once opened, rather than just a day. We would consider keeping it in the fridge for frequent guilty pleasure indulgences. Just don’t tell the warden—it’s contraband.

Nose It’s rich, full of vanilla, toast, and chocolate.

Mouth It certainly is big, with bold fruit flavors—but impressively balanced nonetheless.