Cosmic Red sounds like something from outer-space and when you look at the blend, especially 7% of it, you'd think it was. 50% of this wine is Cabernet Franc, 30% is Cabernet Sauvignon and 13 is Merlot, but then 7% is Pinot Noir, not a grape that usually mingles with these heavy-weights - but for some reason it works. The nose seems almost fruitless with its smoky, leathery and licorice notes, but it's on the palate where the wine shines with fruit, blackberry and cassis mainly, but you'll also find a bit of smoky-vanilla there too. In the mouth the wine almost seems chunky and chewy, but in a good way - this wine has weight and shows off its muscle, even though it's only 12.7% alcohol ... I think the finish is what makes this wine though: star anise on the finish with hints of spice and pepper. A wine this Cosmic Red, one to sit and sip or enjoy with dinner. Price: $19.95 - Rating: ****+