Apothic Red 750ml

Apothic is a California red-blend brand from E. & J. Gallo, based in Modesto. The name comes from the apotheca, where wine was blended and stored in 13th-century Europe. The winery now calls this wine Apothic Red Original Blend; older labels said Winemaker's Blend.

It blends Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, with no percentages published, and the bottle carries no vintage. Oak aging adds vanilla and mocha, and the style is smooth and a little off-dry rather than bone dry.

The winery describes dark berries with hints of mocha and a touch of spice, and a smooth finish.

Against Cocobon, Apothic has more Zinfandel spice; for a smooth red with a hint of sweetness, choose Apothic.

Pour it with barbecue, burgers, chili or a plate of dark chocolate. A short chill in the fridge keeps it fresh on a warm night. It's an easy pick for people who find dry reds too tannic.

Find more wines under $20 and our red blends. Pick it up at our Brooklyn store or get same-day delivery across NYC.