American Reds – Wines In The Comfort Zone

There is something about American red wines made from Bordeaux grapes that usually, though not always, strikes a satisfying tone. Sure, they go well with food, but these are wines that you want to uncork when you've been scurrying about and finally have time to sit down and pull up a glass.

Here are 11 that mostly fill the bill with a couple of East Coasters included.          

Macari North Fork Merlot Reserve 2010 ($36). Macari has become a stalwart for Long Island wines of consistent quality and reasonable regional availability, including this nicely balanced red with lots of cherry flavors with a side of gamy tanginess.

Macari North Fork Rosé 2014 ($16). Creamy strawberry flavors with a hint of brioche and moderate acidity.

Robert Mondavi Oakville "BDX" Red Wine 2012 ($53). A nice integration of fruit and wood flavors with cream cherry and dark cocoanut flavors.

Robert Mondavi Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 ($5). Big and bold with nice, spicy berry flavors of blackberries and cherries accented by tangy tannins.

Flora Springs Napa Valley Merlot 2013 ($25). Straight-ahead flavors of cherries and dark berries with a carbon underlay, yet it tastes a tad tired.

Frank Family Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2012 ($81). Tightly wound, tangy flavors with lots of red berry notes.

Justin Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 ($25). A warm and cozy cab with flavors of cherry, mint, and chocolate – not quite a truffle, but close.

Paul Hobbs "CrossBarn" Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 ($50). Long on the palate with great richness and chewy tannins — it has lots of purple flavors, especially concentrated raspberries.

Mount Veeder Winery Napa Valley Reserve 2012 ($65). A wine for the ages – or for now – with a Bordeaux-style blending of rich, dark fruit melded with dried figs and dark chocolate.

Wild Horse Central Coast Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 ($19). A dark, brooding red with meaty, earthy flavors and a little bit of cream stirred in – the wine version of a fudge brownie.

Four Vines "Biker" Paso Robles Zinfandel 2012 ($19). Very smooth for a big zin and satisfying as well – creamy purple fruits wild mild tannins