Last year was the first year in many that Hillebrand finally raised the price of their Trius Red … it was a long time coming actually. The wine had been out-performing its price point of $20 year after year and the 2007 seemed the best vintage to raise the price. Now, as we move into the 2008 wine, we hope for big things from Trius – and in fact, we get something new – Malbec added to the blend. The 2008 Trius Red has the usual blend of Merlot (46%), Cabernet Franc (31%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%) and this year, for the first time ever, there’s the addition of Malbec (3%). The nose is red and black fruit oriented, while on the palate it’s red fruit dominant with hints of spice; those looking for a good finish will find it here with a long spicy red fruit ending. Easy drinking and quite smooth, this one’s ready to consume now. Price: $21.95 – Rating: ****