Paul Hobbs Felino Cabernet 750ml – Argentina's Bold Value Red

Updated → December 2024

The Paul Hobbs Felino Cabernet Sauvignon delivers world-class Argentine winemaking at an approachable price. Crafted by the legendary Paul Hobbs from high-altitude Mendoza vineyards, this medium-to-full-bodied red offers ripe fruit, velvety tannins, and elegant balance—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.

What makes Paul Hobbs Felino Cabernet 750ml stand out

When a winemaker dubbed “The Steve Jobs of Wine” by Forbes puts his name on a bottle, you pay attention. Paul Hobbs Felino Cabernet 750ml is the gateway into one of Argentina’s most respected wine portfolios—built to overdeliver at an approachable price.

Paul Hobbs arrived in Argentina in 1988 and helped elevate the country’s winemaking reputation. His Viña Cobos project (founded 1999) has earned major acclaim, including multiple top scores from leading critics. The Felino line reflects Hobbs’ philosophy: fresh, vibrant wines with lively acidity and smooth, balanced tannins, sourced from Mendoza’s best growing zones.

Market overview

Argentine Cabernet Sauvignon has grown into a serious category beyond Malbec. Premium Cabernet from high-altitude Mendoza vineyards is now widely recognized for its balance of ripe fruit, structure, and freshness. The category ranges from everyday bottles under $15 to single-vineyard icons well above $100.

Felino sits in the competitive $20–$30 tier—the zone where value matters, but quality must be consistent. It’s widely regarded as a top “overachiever,” offering a polished Cabernet profile that often rivals bottles at a higher price point.

Style & flavor profile

The Felino Cabernet shows a deep ruby color with dark, inky tones. Aromas lean toward ripe currant, blackberry, and black cherry, layered with pepper (red and white), hints of incense, and a subtle violet lift. Some vintages show nutty undertones like hazelnut or walnut.

On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied with concentrated fruit, black pepper and tobacco accents, and firm yet velvety tannins. The finish is persistent and balanced, often showing dark chocolate, rose petal, and a soft clove-like spice. Typical ABV lands around 13.5–14% and the wine drinks fully dry.

How it's made

Felino Cabernet sources fruit from Mendoza’s premier areas—especially Luján de Cuyo and the Valle de Uco—at high elevations (roughly 2,300 to 3,900 feet). Intense sun and cool nights concentrate flavor while preserving acidity, giving the wine its signature freshness.

Grapes are carefully sorted and fermented in stainless steel, using a combination of selected and native yeasts. A portion of the wine (about 10%) is aged in new French oak for roughly 8 months to add structure and subtle spice, while the rest stays in stainless steel to maintain fruit purity. The final blend is typically left unfined to preserve texture.

Food pairings

• Grilled ribeye with chimichurri – Tannins cut through fat, pepper notes echo herbs, and fruit balances grill char.
• Lamb chops with rosemary – Dark fruit and spice complement lamb without overpowering.
• Aged hard cheeses – Manchego or aged Gouda pair beautifully with the wine’s structure and nutty accents.
• Mushroom risotto – Earthy mushrooms and Parmesan highlight the wine’s savory side.
• Slow-braised short ribs – The wine’s fruit and structure handle deep braise flavors easily.

How to serve

Serve at 60–65°F (16–18°C). If it’s warm, a 10–15 minute chill helps. Use a Bordeaux-style glass to concentrate aromas and soften tannins. Decanting for 20–30 minutes brings out extra layers, especially in younger vintages.

Cocktails & mixing

Classic serve

While Felino shines on its own, it can make a solid red wine spritzer: 4 oz Cabernet + 2 oz club soda over ice, finished with an orange slice.

Signature serve: Mendoza Mule

Muddle 3 blackberries in a mug, add 2 oz Felino Cabernet and 1/2 oz lime juice, then top with 3 oz ginger beer. Stir gently and garnish with mint and lime.

Buying guide

Look for “Viña Cobos” and “Paul Hobbs” on the label, with “Felino” and “Cabernet Sauvignon” clearly stated, plus “Mendoza, Argentina.” Recent vintages drink well now; slightly older bottles (3–5 years) can show more integration. Buy from reputable retailers with proper storage—avoid bottles sitting in heat or harsh light.

Comparisons vs. similar products

Felino Cabernet vs. Catena Cabernet Sauvignon

Both are top-tier Argentine Cabernets at similar pricing. Catena can be more powerful and oak-forward, while Felino tends to emphasize freshness and balance. Choose Catena for bold steakhouse style; choose Felino for refined versatility.

Felino Cabernet vs. premium Malbec

Malbec is often plush and softer; Cabernet brings more structure and darker, firmer edges. Choose Malbec for immediate softness, Cabernet for more “classic red wine” structure.

Collector & aging notes

Felino is a strong candidate for short-term cellaring (2–5 years). It’s not built for decades-long aging like top Cobos bottlings, but it can gain complexity with a few years in a cool, dark cellar.

Occasions & gifting

A great gift for wine lovers—impressive name recognition without being over-the-top expensive. Perfect for dinner parties, birthdays, holidays, and elevated weeknight meals.

Storage & shelf life

Store on its side in a cool, dark place (50–65°F). Unopened bottles can hold 5–7 years, with best drinking usually 2–5 years from vintage. After opening, re-cork and refrigerate; best within 3–5 days. Preservation systems can extend that window.

Local availability at our store

Check stock and pickup options below. If you see it listed, it’s in stock at time of viewing. Paul Hobbs Felino Cabernet 750ml is available now at Bel Pre Beer & Wine for $25.99.

Where to buy

Grab Paul Hobbs Felino Cabernet 750ml now from our online shop for just $25.99. Visit https://www.belprefinewine.com/ for curbside pickup, delivery zones, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions