If you’re a Seinfeld fan you probably remember the episode where Kramer wanted to create a cologne that smelled like the beach. This bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon reminded me of that episode with an interesting seaweed aroma. It smells like the beach! It makes this an interesting wine to explore, but not a top pick.
It looks to me as though Marlena Wines are produced as a second label by Tupun winery in Mendoza, Argentina. They don’t market it that way, but it appears to be the case. In the US, it’s imported by Marco and Sons and in Canada by Celestial Brands.
The 2006 Marlena Cabernet Sauvignon looks beautiful with a rich ruby color and opaque depth. It has an interesting, herbal nose, as I mentioned, with hints of seaweed, violet and eucalyptus. But the palate is less interesting, or perhaps less thrilling. The seaweed theme continues—it’s not bad, but it’s different. The fruit is restrained, but once you let the wine open up you’ll find a bit of cherry. The tannins are light, giving it a smooth mouth feel and acid is sufficient. It’s almost a good wine, but I would have liked more abundant fruit. I gave it an 84.
The tasting notes they publish cite nuts and green pepper. I didn’t really find either. Perhaps they’re trying to spin the seaweed characteristic as green pepper because it sounds more appealing. Who knows?
Wine: Marlena
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2006
Alcohol: 13%
Rating: 84
Price Paid: $8.99