Menage a Trois is a second, low-cost label produced by Napa-based Folie a Deux. These aren’t the world’s most challenging bottlings, but they’re by and large good enough for everyday drinking. Here’s how the current batch of releases measure up.

2012 Menage a Trois Sauvignon Blanc California – Unsurprising Sauv Blanc. Huge grapefruit and pepe du chat notes on the nose, more citrus on the palate, sour lemon, and a touch of green pepper. Highly acidic on a light body. Very simple and in some ways refreshing with the right kind of food, though hardly a showstopper. B-

2011 Menage a Trois Pinot Gris California – Quite sweet, surprisingly so for this style of wine. Pineapple and mango on the front give the impression of a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, with candied/canned peaches coming up behind. A simple wine, as expected, but dialed a bit too far forward with the sweetness. B

2011 Menage a Trois Cabernet Sauvignon North Coast California – A simple wine, with notes of menthol and green pepper on the nose. Medium body, with understated notes of plum and cassis jam, blueberries, and spice. Short finish fades quickly. B

2011 Menage a Trois Merlot California – Menthol-driven berries, raspberry primarily. Notes of black tea and licorice add a little complexity, but overall this is a sweet little number driven by almost over-ripe fruit than its other elements. B

2011 Menage a Trois Malbec Mendoza Argentina – A plummy, slightly jammy Malbec, missing the intensity, earth, and black pepper that characterizes the bolder blends. This drinks rather easy, almost like Merlot or a milder Syrah, though the green pepper finish keeps things interesting without becoming bitter (well, almost). B

each $11 to $12 / menageatroiswines.com  [BUY THEM NOW FROM WINE.COM]

2011 Menage a Trois Merlot California

$11

8

Rating

8.0/10

BUY IT NOW