For an off year, this 13% alcohol, 2011 Thomas Barton Reserve Medoc cost less than $18, and scored 15 points on the Dionysian scale of 20.

The wine is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 50% Merlot. Black fruits, spices, and herbs are in the nose. It is soft and lighter than most Medoc wines.  An easy drink.

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This Left-Bank Bordeaux is meant to be a simple everyday drink, with basic foods,  and it is.

Tom Barton’s family started in 1725 in Bordeaux, and this is a modern example of an easy drinking French red.  I’d have no problem sharing it with friends.  In Vino Veritas.