Unintentional Under $20 Week concludes with Zolo, which has drawn opposing opinions on this site over time, but I am in the driver's seat right now and also if I had my way, the Album of the Week would be Hi-Infidelity by REO Speedwagon because it pairs well. The last time we reviewed Zolo, it was someone who is no longer with the site. Now it's my turn, a person who is currently writing for the site. You just never ever know with us, do you? Gentle reader, you're welcome.
Nose: A familiar Mendoza profile of blackberry and cherry at first, and a big layer of spice floating in later. As it sits, notes of black pepper expand and go toe-to-toe with the blackberry. After about twenty minutes, the spice dominates and the fruit goes to its corner for a pep talk.
Palate: As advertised on the nose but much more balanced. The fruit pulls itself up and balances the spice out. There's a lovely note of Grippy tannins and strong acidity
Finish: Medium to Long, the spice eases out and the fruit emerges. With time there's a subtle hint of mint as well, complimenting the dark fruit.
This was quite nice, especially for $20. It carries the sophistication and intensity of bottles twice its price, and never really let up from beginning to end.
$20