Rarely do I consume an adult beverage mid-flight, even one across the country as today, because of some overarching need to be stone cold and ready to drive, meet, or present upon landing.  Tonight, though, none of those considerations stands in the way of me and the Tunupa Cabernet Sauvignon.

2012 Tunupa Dios Los Andes, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile

Granted, it’s an airline offering, chosen by the folks at U.S. Airways, but surprisingly enjoyable.  I’m not sure if that’s due to the low expectations I had going in or the long days I’ve kept as of late, but this red is better than adequate and keeps me content as we streak across the country toward L.A.  My back is less achy, my eyelids heavier—what else are you really looking for?

Tunupa offers a fruity and fragrant bouquet, possibly with some oak aging herein, more than a spicy or earthy nose.  (Not quite sure on the oak barrels but positive a Google search could easily verify if the spirit takes you.)  The berry scent I can’t quite pinpoint despite multiple attempts but it is good…more cherry but perhaps a hint of strawberry in here somewhere as well?  Fragrant and easy in its finish, too.

I have no real pairings to offer on this occasion; I’m just snacking on salted peanuts and hoping for real food on the other leg of this journey.  An Airbus is not exactly a skyborne bar but if it was I’d probably grab another 175ml of the Tunupa on the double-hop.