Big Tattoo Red Cabernet-Syrah 2006

It's beyond time for me to freak the dream this week, people.

Mike and I try not to let too much time lapse between posts but due to the latest American Idol (AI) shocker and the finale of America's Best Dance Crew (ABDC) this week, I've been a little distracted. And while some of you (Mike included) may be rolling your eyes right now, I'll tell you why I like both of those shows. They indulge the cheesiest part of me, the part that rejoices in seeing random strangers reach for and realize their dreams. I'm always impressed with the stubborn optimism the contestants have on these types of shows. They really believe they'll win, or at the very least, gain a following that will help jump-start their careers. It's all that they seem to know. As the first all-female crew to reach the finals on America's Best Dance Crew, the Beat Freaks embodied this sentiment the best when they implored the audience members and viewers at home to stay persistent in 'freaking their own dreams'. And don't get me started on Anoop Desai of American Idol. He gets me all misty-eyed, I won't lie.

So, with that in mind, this blog is how I freak my dream. I wasn't joking several posts ago when I said that I secretly wished I could quit my day job to blog about wine full-time. It's the most fun part of my life right now and I try to channel the persistent optimism of all those AI and ABDC contestants as I approach each post I write for this blog. One day this blog will be all that I know.

In keeping with this spirit, I chose tonight's wine because the purchase of this particular wine helps to fund the dream that the Bartholomaus Brothers freak, at Big Tattoo Wines. For every bottle sold, the brothers donate 50 cents to various hospice and breast cancer related charities, in honor of their late mother Liliana. This particular Cab-Syrah blend was cooked up in Chile. It's very dry and has a sharp kick to it as you swallow but boy does it ever warm you up on the inside. While I didn't have this with a meal, I imagine it pairs well with cheeses and meats as opposed to chicken and/or seafood. Big Tattoo Wines offers other types of wine, whites included. They have a neat link on their website that shows you where their wines are sold in any state. Help them freak their dream!

I'll give it a 6 out of 10.

Wine.com, $9.29