This is going to be the second 2006 California Cabernet Sauvignon I'm looking at this week. There are of course many differences. The biggest one is a theme I've touched on many tines, intent. The Titus I looked at earlier in the week is clearly a wine built with long life in mind. Monogamy comes with a different approach, mindset and price-point.
The 2006 Monogamy Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of Mendocino Cabernet Sauvignon (88%) and Merlot (12%) sourced from various regions in California. This wine spent 14 months in a combination of French and American oak. The suggested retail price for this wine is $12.
Bright berry, vanilla and cedar notes are prominent in the nose of this Cabernet Sauvignon. Throughout the palate, cherry is the star of the show. It's joined by a host of other characteristics such as blueberry, plum and white pepper notes. Additional cedar, as well as bramble emerge in the finish. The tannins are light and give way easily, lending to a very approachable wine.
This wine is intended for everyday drinking or big gatherings. It's not built to lay down and age but it'll be tasty for the next couple of years. The bottom line for me is that it fulfills its intent as an affordable wine that you could pull out on Tuesday night with leftovers or on Memorial Day with a yard full of guests. In either case it provides enjoyable drinking and sufficient varietal character.