This bottle came as a happy, inexpensive surprise. I generally think Paso Robles produces more interesting Rhone wines (Syrah, GSM blends, etc.) than Bordeaux varieties (Cabernet, Merlot, etc.). But this is a totally drinkable, nicely balanced, medium-bodied Cab for just $14 — and you’ll probably find it for less. Hard to beat!

Edna Valley Vineyard 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon San Luis Obispo County ($14). Smooth, medium-bodied black cherry flavors are accented with smoky cedar and dried herbal notes that linger on the moderate finish. Easy on its own, but also food friendly. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Food Pairing: This easy-drinking Cabernet could work as well with a steak dinner as it would before a meal with these aromatic, rosemary-flecked nuts.

Recipe: Hors d’oeuvres & Nibbles: Exotic Rosemary Nut Mix
Enjoy by the handful with drinks, or turn this into a delicious coating for oven-roasted lamb chops or rack of lamb by simply skipping the initial toasting, chopping the nuts and mixing with remaining ingredients. Makes about 3 cups whole nuts.

¾ cup macadamia nuts
¾ cup shelled pistachios
¾ cup unsalted cashew nuts
¾ cup whole blanched, skinned almonds
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 teaspoon finely minced fresh rosemary
½ teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
dash Tobasco
¾ teaspoon kosher salt

Preheat oven to 350F. Spread nuts on a baking sheet and toast until golden brown, about 10 minutes, watching carefully. Meanwhile, heat butter in a small skillet with garlic, rosemary, thyme and Tobasco.

Remove garlic from butter and discard. Toss butter with nuts in a large bowl along with kosher salt. Serve at room temperature.