Swim, Bike, Run…Sip

We’ve noticed a trend at the wine store lately: bicycles on labels. We were curious how these wines measured up, so we got the expert opinion from San Diego Sommelier Jesse Rodriguez. As the wine director at the prestigious Grand Del Mar’s restaurant, Addison, he oversees a 35,000-bottle collection. All three bottles fall in the wallet-friendly range of $8–12. Rodriguez concluded that they were all good quality, value and bang for the buck.

Cono Sur

Merlot
Tasting notes: Plush red and black fruit, mocha and cocoa, with subtle leather.
Staff says: Thumbs up. It’s smooth from start to finish. Out of the three wines, Rodriguez says this was the most versatile.
Pair it with: Pork loin or seared steak. Rodriguez would cook a pork loin with sautéed spinach or broccoli rabe, pine nuts, garlic confit and thyme.

FILED UNDER: Features

Jené Shaw

Jené Shaw is a senior editor at Triathlete magazine and a USAT Level 1 and USATF Level 1 certified coach.

• Follow @trimagjene
• All articles by Jené