2000
Chateau Los Boldos Cabernet Sauvignon Requinoa $
(11.00)
Here is a wine you can afford to drink any time and place with friends or by
yourself and you can feel like you’re giving yourself a treat.
This Chilean Cab has dark cherry, currant, a bit of spice and a
smooth finish. Well crafted for an everyday drinking wine.
2001
Matilda Plains Bremerton Winery $
(11.99)
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot brings a great fruit and a
depth of flavor to this inexpensive wine.
A winner to serve for a causal gathering of friends who enjoy red,
since the 14% Merlot softens the racy Shiraz enough to appeal to a large
audience.
1999
Nederberg Cabernet Sauvignon $
(11.99)
This wine shows hopes of dark fruits and a woody finish but falls
short on the finish and the structure to make this a big leaguer. I much enjoyed their Pinotage over the Cabernet.
2001
Penfolds Koonunga Hills Shiraz/Cabernet $
(8.99)
This Aussie wine boasts flavors of cinnamon and clovers with helpings of
dark cherry and plumb and a smooth velvety finish. A
deep flavor-filled delight for those seeking inexpensive chewy reds.
1999
Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon $$$
(70.00 rest.)
Generous amounts of red fruits and dark spices with currant and cedar
undertones. Mildly balanced
tannins and acid components make this wine a pleasurable experience
1995
Beringer Alluvium Red $$ (32.00)
This Meritage shows style and elegance with plum and dark fruit right out of
the gate. Soft tannins and a
silky finish make the bottom of this bottle seem too close to the cork. A nice wine for a special occasion, like when you are about
to depart to beer country.
1998
Blackjack Harmonie $
(23.00)
Comprised of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23 % Merlot, 15%
Cabernet Franc and 5% Petite Verdot.
2000
Amberhill Cabernet Sauvignon $
(11.00)
This wine is on their list for $28.00 and is poured at 8.00 per glass as the
Cab. Brought to you by the Raymond Family, this wine brings dark
cherry; tobacco, spice and herbs to the large bowled glasses but lacks the
length and fullness to make it a big wine.
1995 Far
Ninety Estate Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon $$$
(85.00)
Like a classic car, this wine has power, style and elegance to make
everyone stop and look, reminiscent of a 1962 Red Corvette with red and
white leather interior. Decanting
opened this wine to bring out the earthy tones of Oakville while allowing
the full complement of fruit to dance across your palate.
An impressive velvety long finish with a small amount of acid to
leave your salivary glands asking for more.
A Cabernet to understand the power and beauty of the sought after
wines of California.
2000
Talomas $
(10.99)
This blend is 67% cabernet sauvignon and 33% syrah which brings
plenty of dark fruit, a brown spice undertone from the syrah, and a toasted
caramel oak finish. A nice warm
up or a fun wine while hanging out with friends.
1998
Sebastiani Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma $
(15.00)
An easy drinking wine with a pleasant cherry flavor and hints of
raspberry, black licorice and oak.
1999
Lyeth Meritage Red Table Wine $ (13.99)
Keep this in a glass and sniff often, it will be a pleasurable experience.
Just don’t drink it expecting the same.
This one falls into my cheap red wine palate experience.
1997
Rustenberg Stellenbosch $$
(27.00)
A delightful blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and cabernet franc
that shows dark cherries, earthiness, leather and mild tannins.
This one was a great compliment to NY Strip Gorgonzola.
2001
Casa Lapostolle Cabernet Sauvignon Rapel Valley $
(9.00)
This wine will do well for a casual evening with a generous portion
of ripe berry and fruit flavors and well balanced tannins with a hint of
black jelly bean.
2001
Penfolds Koonunga Hills Shiraz/Cabernet $
(11.00)
A drinkable wine with leather, dark fruits and mild tannins.
Well balanced acidity will have this one around the pre-dinner table.
1999
Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon $$
(31.00)
This wine has the grace and power of a well crafted cab.
Depth is provided from the small additions of merlot, cabernet franc
and petite Verdot bringing black cherry, currant and blackberry flavors and
a silky finish. This will rest
well for the next 5-8 years but drinks just fine right now.
1997
Guenoc Meritage Red $
(16.99)
The middle was enjoyable but this wine starts off with a bit of a
harshness and doesn’t carry much on the finish. You
will find a pleasant red cherry and brown spice flavor in this wine but you
have to look for it. Hang in
there and it becomes enjoyable.
1996
Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon $$
(35.00)
Big Cab Lovers will enjoy the ride with on this Bronco.
It starts untamed with tannins and oak that slap you in the face, but
with some fresh air, you can take control of the reins and trots through the
cherry groves of Napa and gives way to a silky smooth, elegant gate that
brings a tear to your eye as you pour out the last bit into your guest’s
glass.
1995 BV
Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon $ (19.99)
Aging was kind to this wine and it allowed the tannins to soften and the
fruit to develop. Look for
black cherries, tobacco, and oak that rounds out well and for under twenty
dollars, a good solid wine.
1997
Kendall Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Reserve $$
(44.00)
This wine is full on the palate and has not yet tamed its tannins giving a
crunchy, chewy feel to the wine. Dark fruit and black berries fill your mouth and oak is all
over this one. Better to rest
for several years than deal with the hard finish.
1999
Rodney Strong Alexander’s Crown Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon $$
(24.99)
Thin and unimpressive is what my palate said to me after this wine.
Hints of fruit showed up near the end but this wine lacked legs and
arms and torso. I have enjoyed
the RS Sonoma and for a lesser price, it delivered more.
1997
Justin Cabernet Sauvignon $
(15.00)
This is a good solid wine for dinner or sitting with friends, plenty
of fruit and a long silky smooth finish
1997 Floral Springs Cabernet Sauvignon
$$$ (58.00 rest.)
A nicely structured wine with dark cherry and earthen tones that show a
line of tannins to complement any medium rare steak on the menu.
1997
Quail Creek Cabernet Sauvignon $
(16.99)
For beef, this is a great partner. A
cab from the Rutherford Benchmark holding which also includes Quail Ridge,
Bell and Fox Brook. An
enjoyable mix of tannins, chocolate and dark cherry with a snappy finish.
1999
Rodney Strong Alexander’s Crown Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon $$
(24.99)
Thin and unimpressive is what my palate said to me after this wine.
Hints of fruit showed up near the end but this wine lacked legs and
arms and torso. I have enjoyed
the RS Sonoma and for a lesser price, it delivered more.
1997
Justin Cabernet Sauvignon $
(15.00)
This is a good solid wine for dinner or sitting with friends, plenty
of fruit and a long silky smooth finish
1995 BV
Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon $ (19.99)
Aging was kind to this wine and it allowed the tannins to soften and the
fruit to develop. Look for
black cherries, tobacco, and oak that rounds out well and for under twenty
dollars, a good solid wine.
1997
Kendall Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Reserve $$
(44.00)
This wine is full on the palate and has not yet tamed its tannins giving a
crunchy, chewy feel to the wine. Dark fruit and black berries fill your mouth and oak is all
over this one. Better to rest
for several years than deal with the hard finish.
2000
Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet-Shiraz $
(22.00)
This wine has a deep ruby hue
and generous amounts of black fruit, chocolate and mint.
A bit tannic, which do settle with time to a pleasant but short
finish.
1997
Woodward Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon
$$$
(32.00)
The
cork says it all. Call it Woody, but the woody here is the intense oak that
greets you and then the fruit pours in. Plenty of dark fruits and tannins to
make this one a wine for years to come.
Let it relax in the rack and tone the tannins before you approach
this bottle.
2000 Smoking
Loom Cabernet Sauvignon $
(8.99)
Though I really enjoyed earlier releases of this label, this release
smelled and the taste was boxed in by all the wood.
This wine also had a bit of a tangy aftertaste that made it of little
interest for me to try again.
1998
Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon $$ (42.00) This
ruby colored lush wine delivered red fruits, soft tannins and brown spice
with an attitude that told us it preferred to sleep in the cellar several
more years before it would show all it has to offer. Drink now, but buy two
to hold and enjoy in five years.
1999
Hedges Columbia Valley $
(14.99) This Meritage from Washington left me longing for a Pinot Noir. Unfortunately, there was not a great deal to find in this
wine from the first to last sip. Depth
and complexity from the blending of 5 grapes should reveal a bounty of
fruits but this wine had neither. Save
this one for the demi glaze reduction but not the dinner accompaniment.
1998
Punter’s Corner Cabernet Sauvignon $
(13.99)
Bummer, when I uncorked this wine, the black/purple contrast on the bottom
of the cork to the light tan body had my mouth watering for a big-ass wine.
Hints of eucalyptus and chocolate mint had my mind racing with
visions of a rich full-bodied drink. Then
I sampled it and was left with one thought, “Where’s the Beef?”
Never judge a book by its color and nose. Maybe it’s the Russian
Oak.
1998 Los
Vascos Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon $(14.99)
This wine will not remain sub-twenty dollars much longer.
A favorite Chilean of mine, a nicely balanced fruit and tannin
combination makes this a crowd pleaser for those not looking for the big
bold Cabs.
1999
Geyser Peaks Cabernet Sauvignon
The scent of wood and vanilla hit me first and a soft wine with good dark
cherry and a hint of cinnamon washed through my mouth.
This is a very drinkable wine right now with subtle tannin to keep
you interested.
1999
Vina Tarapaca Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva, Maipo Valley
$ (9.99) Too much wood, there is a great dark cherry and spiciness to this
wine if you can hang in there long enough.
Could be a really nice wine if the fruit could come forward.
2001
Penfold Rawson’s Retreat Shiraz Cabernet $
(12.99)
A shinning example of depth and character from two big red grapes.
Though young, there is plenty of fruit on the nose and in the mouth.
Berries galore and a robust plumb, currant and pepper finish.
This wine is a great one to enjoy anytime with a price that’s worth
keeping a case in the cellar.
1998 Montes
Alpha Curico Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $
(14.99) This is a prime example of why I think Chile has so much to offer the
wine world. Value, best buy, stock
up and watch your investment grow. Full-bodied,
flavorful and fruit packed with enough tannins to spice it up.
This will cellar for several years, but why wait? Drink it now and
buy more for later.
1998
Punters Corner Cabernet Sauvignon $
(20.00)
Too early to drink this wine, unless you want a mouth full of oak. This wine stays tight a great way through the bottle.
American, Russian, and French oak flavor this fruit-filled Cabernet,
boasting hints of mint, chocolate, smoke and leather.
Though I do think the smoke was from Tony and the leather from the
racehorse.
1994 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon
$$ (45.00)
Let sleeping dogs lay and a calm, content animal will awake. The pleasant combination of soft tannins and ripe dark
cherries with a gentle woody tone. This
is a gem of a wine that could be enjoyed for years to come with proper storage
conditions. A great example of
Alexander Valley’s richness.
1997
Arbor Crest Dionysus $$ (39.00) This
Meritage from Washington starts out in search of aerobic exercise.
It’s tight and needs oxidation to mellow the wood and bring forth
the red cherry, and cinnamon flavors. Once
stretched and loose, the wood tails to a pleasant cedar flavoring for the
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc blend.
2002 Vina
Tarapaca Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva $
(6.05)
Though this wine shows a very promising bouquet, the taste just
doesn’t hold up. A good example
of cassis, dark cherry and oak greet you, the wine tales off too soon for those
flavors to linger in the mouth. Chilean
quality is on the rise, but this one has a bit to go.
1999
Angove Bear Crossing $ (11.99)
This is a 60/40 blend of Cabernet and Merlot from down under
showing soft fruit and an herb nose. Mildly
tannic and simple, this wine is easy drinking for those who want a toned-down
cabernet.
1998 Bodegas
Y Cavas De Weinert Carrascal $ 10.99
Dark cherry, blackberry, tobacco and currant grace this blended Argentinean
wine, made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Merlot.
A structured wine with plenty of fruit and a brash finish.
1997
Regusci, Stag’s Leap Cabernet – $$$100
(Rest.) Whoa, if you
like Plumpjack Cab or Stag’s Leap Vineyards red you will love this.
The Regusci family has been a dominant grower of fruit for many
of the “big name” vineyards for nearly 33 years. In ’96 they began bottling some of their fruit under their
own label and if you have not heard/tried this offering, you are missing
a fantastic bottle of wine. Intense
berry like fruit and smooth finish is just part of this complex Cab.
You owe it to yourself to try this wine.
Rating 95 WinoHondo
1998 Jordan
Cabernet Sauvignon $$
(41.00)
Breathe deep, not you, the wine.
This one needs air to reveal its beauty, plenty of rich fruit and saucy
tannins. Elegance and
sophistication define this wine.
1996 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon
($$$?)
This wine requires the oxidation process to release the fruit from the
strangle hold the tannins have on it. Early
tasting leaves your mouth without saliva for 5 minutes. Then the grand structure of fruits and cassis and oak and
smoke all swirl around your mouth like a carrousel ride. Drink this with winos that don’t put ice in red wine.
1999
Provenance Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford $$
(50.00 rest.)
The aroma off the wine reminded me of the amoxicynin I took as a kid for an
inner ear infection, a sweet artificial bubble-gum, medicine nose.
This wine dries your tongue faster than peanut butter, but over time,
releases the dark cherry fruits one expects.
Even over time, the medicinal aroma stays, even as the sweetness
disappears.
1998 Casa
Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre Cabernet Sauvignon, Rapel Valley $$
(31.00 rest.)
This wine boasts plenty of black fruit and oak aromas, but disappoints on the
palette, drinking lighter and thinner then expected.
1999
Vermonte Cabernet Sauvignon $ (7.99)
As Chile is an up and comer, I look to her for value wines. This one was
harsh and immature. Most people
would not hang around long enough to find the dark fruit flavor, too little, too
late.
1997
Meritage “Valley of the Moon” Reserve $$ (it was 15.00 per glass)
This wine had cherry, berry and tannin, earth-tones and a sophisticated finish
will greet you as you bring this wine into your mouth. This was a strong enough wine to handle the peppery Elk, yet
elegant enough to support the side dishes.
1997
Charles Krug Family Reserve Generations, Napa Valley $$
(28.00)
This meritage is made up of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Cabernet Franc and 17%
Merlot. The wine pours out soft on
the tongue and shows the interplay of the grapes.
Plum, cherry and dark chocolate flavors are enhanced by the oak and
spices.
1999 KRV
Marcata $ (17.00 rest-7.95 retail)
I enjoyed the experience, but would not list this Cabernet/Merlot blend
as a top pick. This wine was thin
and lacked depth. The fruit offered
little to the palette.
1999
Liberty School Cabernet Sauvignon
$$ (28.00)
A firm Cabernet with oak from head to toe.
Dark cherry, tobacco and leather with earthy undertones.
Mild tannins make this enjoyable for the future.
1996 Bell
Cabernet Sauvignon Baritelle Vineyards, Jackson Clone, Rutherford
$$ (35.00 discounted from 50.00)
Flavors of mature fruit, with a cedary, dusty character to them.
A bright brick hue and soft elegant tannins make this wine drinkable
right now. Not chewy or
particularly long on the finish, but well structured.
1999 Rodney
Strong Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma County $$ (32.00 rest.)
I enjoy RS Cab, but this one is too young and the tannins control the fruit like
a wife. The fruit is lurking in the
background looking to find an opening in the conversation to rear their head.
Even after the second glass, the dark cherry and tobacco must ask
permission to visit your palette.
1993
Sterling Vineyards Reserve, SVR Meritage – Price
$24.00 for a split (purchased at the winery in 1995)
The label listed this as a Meritage that was blended using 61% Cab., 14%
Merlot, 12% Petit Verdot, 11% Cab. Franc and 2% Malbec and although this bottle
was stored in less than optimum conditions, it held on nicely.
A reasonable amount of fruit complemented this offering, which was so
dark and purple, I couldn’t see through it!
The finish lingered and left you with full, rich flavors of currant and
spice. Worth a try. Rating
87. Wino Hondo
1997 BV
George De Latour – $110 (CA Rest.)
Open this beauty up prior to drinking and watch out.
Smooth is the best way to sum up this red.
A nose of fruit laced with ripe red berries and currant
provided the first indication that this is wine that is at the top of
its’ class. Well defined
structure with plenty of taste that is complemented by a silky smooth finish.
This baby is increasingly hard to find (as are most ‘97s) but worth the
hunt. I happened to find a
restaurant in Santa Clara, CA that just received a case.
I see myself eating out quite a bit this month!
Rating 94 Wino Hondo
2000 Armador
Cabernet Sauvignon $ (8.99)
Chile is making some good Cabs for cheap prices and this is a shinning example.
Just enough tannin to dry the tongue and rich generous cherry and
tobacco.
1997 Hendry
Block 8 Cabernet Sauvignon $$ (36.00)
This wine lacked the fruit and length to make it a winner in my book.
Medium bodied, black fruit and a minty accent gave this an interesting
flavor but not enough to hold your attention
1998
Franciscan Oakville Estates Magnificat Meritage $$$
(55.00 rest.) Deep ruby, full-bodied, heavily oaked and a tongue
drying tannin made this fruit packed wine delicious.
Good depth with blackberry, cherry, leather and an earthen aroma
1999 Hedges
$ (7.95 on special)
This Bordeaux blend from Washington State shares two things in common with
Bordeaux, it is red and it uses the grapes common to Bordeaux. Thin, and
watery are the best I could muster to describe this wine. It gets back to
the old adage, you get what you pay for.
1999 Smoking
Loon Cabernet Sauvignon $
9.99
Maybe it was the volume of fruit at the initial olfactory
impression, maybe it was the mouthful of fruit with the first taste, or maybe it
was the light tannins that made this a good Cab, drinkable right now.
Impressive especially when you think about the price.
(Editor's note: I disagree entirely. This wine was
barely drinkable.)
1997
Rustenberg Stellenbosch $
This Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc from South
Africa is good, but lacks the length and fruit to make this memorable. Stellenbosch is a region I love but this one does not carry
the power of others I’ve enjoyed.
1998
Hedges Columbia Valley Red Wine $ (11.00)
Dark and deep purple color, this blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 8%
Cabernet Franc, 5% Syrah gives this depth and complexity.
Raspberry, chocolate and cranberry flavors dance in your mouth, but the
wine does not last long enough to push this higher on the list.
1997
Lancaster Reserve Alexander Valley
$$$ (59.00)
The blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc is
an elegant wine that is smooth and full of black cherry.
This wine will cellar for the next 5 years to bring out more of the
beauty in the bottle. By the second
glass, this wine balanced the tannin, fruits and floral aromas.
1999 Valle Andino Cabernet Sauvignon
$ 8.99 Sorry, this one was bitter and harsh going
down no matter how long I swirled, and let sit.
It never opened though it softened a bit, not a pleasant wine experience.
1998
Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon ?
Pleasant, and balanced, this wine had a playful level of tannin to back up the
dark cherry flavors and made this wine stand up well with the red snapper and
filet mignon main course. A good
wine to drink on a weekend with friends.
1997
Sebastiani Sonoma Cask Cabernet Sauvignon $ (20.00)
This wine is 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc and aged in West
Virginian oak for 17 months.
The harsh tannins mute the opulent, jammy fruit.
This has a harshness that lessens the spirit of this wine.
1997
Beaulieu Vineyards Tapestry $$$(70.00 restaurant)
Smooth, powerful, velvety, full in body and flavor.
Rich textured and complex made from 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot,
4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot.
This is an example of why I prefer blends to cepages.
Depth, cherry and blackberry and vanilla and currant mix and mingle to
the delight of your palate.
Special occasions are befitting of this beauty.
1997
Casa Lapostolle Cabernet Sauvignon Cuvee Alexandre
$
(16.00) Pure
Cabernet aromas rocket from the surface of this wine with depth from the 11
months in oak (92% in French oak, 8% in American oak-50% new barrels, 40% 1 year
old and 10% 2 years old).
This wine has great fruit and tannins that will allow this to sit in the
bottle for years to come.
Blackberry and coffee dominate this wine.
For those looking for wines under $20.00 that have guts, this is a big,
bold red wine lover’s style.
1997
Sea Ridge Coastal Cabernet Sauvignon $ (9.99)
Though not intense or bold, this wine is drinkable now with rich berry flavors
and mild tannins.
Medium-bodied, there is a bouquet of vanilla from the toasted oak barrel.
There will be some bottle aging enhancements but it's not worth hiding
this one away.
And remember, next time you are having Pepper Steak with Port Wine
Mushroom Sauce, think Sea Ridge Coastal.
I personally think this wine will not hold up to a really peppery steak.
1997
Dry Creek Vineyards Epoch II Millennium Cuvee Cabernet
$65.00 Filled
with flavors of cherry and ripe plums, this full-bodied blend of Cabernet and
Merlot (blend percentages are not provided) was nicely balanced with a toasty
oak finish. A thick, syrupy texture
ensured that this wine sticks to your tongue and lingers until your next sip!
This is an approachable bottle now that will only get better over the
next 10 plus years. Rating
91 WinoHondo
1994
Cabernet Sauvignon Durney Vineyards $ (11.00)
Slogan of the winery is “Dances On Your Palate”
and from the first sip you’ll know why. This
wine is a cabernet, merlot, malbec, cabernet franc combination that is heavily
wooded. A cedar nose prevails and the cedar brings a Southern
Rhonesque flavor to the wine. Open
and let this one breath for a while. By
the second glass, the fruit arrived and delighted.
1995
Cousino Macul Finis Terrae
$$ (31.99)
"Tight" and "rough" and "hot" are words to start
off with. The tannin is so upfront
that the alcohol is the next sensation one gets.
Only after a good long time of swirling and standing in the glass did the
fruit appear. Earthy, plum and
black currant arrives after the long wait.
This full body wine has a great deal of astringency and leads me to
believe that this will sit in the bottle for 10 years before the fruit is
present in the first taste. A high priced Chilean wine.
1997
Rodney Strong Alexander’s Crown Cabernet.
Price $28.00 (CA Supermarket)
A very big and full Sonoma Cab. Lots
of color and aroma from the very first pour.
A bouquet of fruit that included plum and ripe dark cherry. The finish
lasted nicely with a solid earthy, anise undertone.
A very nice bottle to drink now, or hold for later enjoyment.
Buy a lot! Rating 90 WinoHondo
1997
Seavey, Napa Valley Cabernet. $85.00 (rest.)
This light bodied Cab displayed a very smooth texture that held nice
fruit. A very nice nose and velvety
finish made this an enjoyable and approachable bottle of wine. Rating 88 WinoHondo
1996
Silver Oak, Alexander Valley Cabernet.
$140 (rest) Delicious and smooth. Fruit,
nose, depth, finish, it’s all in there!. Fantastic bottle of wine (even at this price)
Rating 95. WinoHondo
1996
Clos du Bois, Marlstone Meritage.
$65.00 (rest)
A very smooth drinkable bottle of wine that displayed fruit and a very
nice texture on your palate. Plenty
of complexity and a finish that held a balance of anise and some spice.
Rating 90 WinoHondo
1997
Clos du Bois, Marlstone Meritage.
$65.00 (rest.)
Smoother than the 1996, plenty of up-front fruit and a lingering and
balanced finish. The 1997 stays
with you a little longer than the 1996 and offered a little more depth.
Great value for the price! Rating
91 WinoHondo
1993
Bianchi Particular Cabernet Sauvignon Proprietor’s Reserve $
12.99 I would not buy this ever again!!!
1995
Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
$$
(38.00)
So I splurged on a Friday night, but this wine looks garnet in the glass and
gives off a Big Cab aroma. A good structure of oak is present. The feel of this wine is velvet in your mouth with a big,
full, fruity taste. Warning,
don’t drink this wine for a light fun night.
This is a serious cab and should be enjoyed as such.
Mild tannins and a long finish.
1997
Kenwood Jack London Vineyard Cabernet.
$31.00 Not an especially fruity wine
that lacked much discerning flavor up front.
The finish had some Anise and earthy flavors that were not too bad.
All in all, not a fantastic bottle for the money.
Rating 80 WinoHondo
1998
Pezzi King Cabernet.
$30.00 A different style cab
with a mouthful of up-front flavor that included strawberry and a fruity black
cherry note that was a little sweet on the palate. The finish was a little raspy with a hint of vanilla and some
green grass undertones. There are
better 30 dollar bottles of wine, but maybe I should have let it age more than a
few days! Rating 84 WinoHondo
1998
Beringer Founder’s Estate Cabernet Sauvignon $
(17.00)
This young, snappy wine needs time to mellow.
Harshness and tannins overshadowed any fruit that could have made this
enjoyable. Disappointing in what it
never delivered.
1997
Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz $$ (38.00)
This blend balanced the Cabernet Sauvignon well with the Shiraz grape.
A big, full-bodied red wine that delivered plenty of fruit with mild
tannins and a long finish. A solid
wine from a well know producer.
1996
Rodney Strong Symmetry $$$$ (85.00)
A Bordeaux blend of 60% Cabernet, 30% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc,
this wine showed some tight tannins to start off with and loosened up
towards the end of the bottle. The
finish was clipped and the cabernet was not as fruity as one would have expected
from this wine. I did not get much
depth from this blend. A good wine,
but not enough character to set it apart from the pack.
1997
Stag’s Leap Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Napa $??
This wine was delicious.
A full Cabernet showing dark cherry fruit and a smooth, long finish.
A small tannin hint to know this wine will cellar for years to come.
This is a sensory pleaser with great bouquet.
Search this one out.
1995
Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon Vintage Selection Napa Valley $$
(48.00)
Find this cabernet and enjoy it today. If
you could wrap a dark cherry in a velvet glove, you would have this wine.
A medium-bodied fruit packed with a slight nose of oak and a long finish.
This is ready to drink, showing the slightest hint of tannin. This is a wine that should be allowed to open and, once it
does, the Red wine drinkers in your crowd will beg for more.
A winner!!!
1995
Bernardus Marinus $$ (32.00)
Deep, dark color, this wine sloshes when you swirl because of the
full-body it shows. Cabernet
Sauvignon dominates the aroma though this is a blend of Cab, Merlot, Cabernet
Franc and Petite Verdot. Big, weighty, mouth-filling,
cut-it-with-a-knife and chew this wine. This is a BIG-ass Cabernet, not for the faint of heart.
1998
Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon $$ (38.00)
Dark
brick red and a full body meet your eye as you swirl this wine.
Succulent juicy berries greet your nose and mouthfuls of fruit with
overtones of oak grace your palette. A
slight after taste kept me from rating this higher, but it’s young,
folks. Give it a try.
1996
Arrowood Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County
$$ (38.00)
1997
Plumpjack Cabernet – Price $90.00
(Rest.) I was always a big
fan of this little winery, but wait until you try a bottle of the ’97. This wine is Big with lots of flavor and plenty of
body. Left open for about one hour
prior to drinking, this wine had plenty of time to open up and become everything
it could be. Read the '94 review
below and multiply! If you see
some, buy it. Rating 95 WinoHondo
1997
Groth Cabernet – Price $85.00 (Rest.)
Another fantastic bottle of Red from this premier winery.
This Cab was left open for about 45 min prior to enjoyment and proved to
have all the taste you expect in a Groth Cab.
The first taste provided firm fruit and tannin that paired beautifully
with the dinner of Steak and Prime Rib. If
this wine lacked anything, a longer finish may have been it.
Still a bottle worth having. Rating
90 WinoHondo
1997
Silver Oak Alexander Valley - $100.00 (Rest.)
Expense Reports are a great thing! What
a terrific bottle of wine. We had
this bottle poured into a decanter for about 1 hour prior to serving and this
was one smooth bottle. There is
nothing to say but get as much as you can of this dark red beauty.
Great dark color, tons of fruit and just enough wood to make you want a
lot more! Rating 96 WinoHondo
1997
Sena Meritage – Price $80.00 (Rest.)
This Chilean blend is a complex, spicy contender!
If you have yet to come across this wine, find a way to get your hands on
some and try a bottle. Lots of
color and a Bordeaux style complexity that you just can’t get in a straight
Cab. Granted, it is a little spicy with a slightly peppery finish,
but paired with the right meal (or on it’s own), you gotta try this.
Rating 93 WinoHondo
1997
Symmetry Sonoma Meritage - $75.00 (Rest.)
This Sonoma blend offers a Bordeaux style flavor that is extremely
approachable and smooth for such a young wine.
No overpowering fruit here, just lots of well balance flavors that end in
a velvet like texture that coats your mouth.
If you see it, buy it. Rating
92 WinoHondo
1996
Guenoc Beckstoffer IV Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon
$?
Deliciously fruitful with soft tannins give this wine a highly drinkable
rating. Round and soft and lengthy.
There is enough fruit in
this wine to store in the cellar for years of enjoyment.
1997 Quintessa $$$
(79.00)
This wine is crafted by wine mogul,
August Huneeus, whose credits include Franciscan Estates, Estancia, Mt.
Veeder, Pinnacles, and Veremonte.
Quintessa is his Ultra Premium Meritage comprised of Cabernet Sauvignon,
Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Rich,
dark cherry fruit and a balance of tannins make this a wine that can be savored
now or cellared for years to come.
1992
Gallo Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon
$ (11.00)
This
wine was OK. It did not have a great deal of anything. The
cabernet aroma was weak, the fruit was there but did not last, and the tannins
played more of a role than a 1992 should have seen. Drinkable, but nothing to
write home about.
1986
Caymus Special Selection $$$$$$$$$(235.00)
This,
my friends, is a beautiful wine.
However, this wine needs a large amount of time for the air to let it unfold.
Glass one was tough, but the second
glass brought out a deliciously full-bodied Cabernet that lives at the top
of the food chain.
This
is a once in a lifetime wine, the apex of California’s Cabernet.
1974
Mayacaymus O'Shaughnessy Vineyard Cabernet
- Initially, I
had no hope for this bottle and had to extract the cork in
multiple pieces as it had seriously deteriorated.
However, after about a 30
minute decanting, this wine proved that Napa Valley can produce fine
wines that age with the best of them. Once
poured, you immediately notice
that the color has turned to a rustic, brownish red.
Upon first taste, you
also note that some of the fruit is gone with the age, however, this wine
held terrific complexity with a smooth mouth feel and syrupy texture.
Replacing some of the missing fruit was an "underbody" of earth and
anise
flavor that provided just the right finish to a well aged bottle. I doubt that you will
see this one hanging around but, if you do, get some.
Rated 93 Price??? WinoHondo
1994
Plumpjack Cabernet
- A
micro-winery in the heralded Stag's Leap District.
In fact, until '94,
this grower sold all of their fruit to Stag's Leap Winery.
(Sorry, had to
add a little history lesson!) Ever
had a Stag's Fay or SLV? Well, this wine
holds it's own with either of them. Deep
purple color with tons of fruit,
strong flavors that include Raspberry, Current and almost a hint of
Blueberry. The finish on this wine
is lingering with complexity and body.
This wine could easily benefit from another 6-10 years of aging. This hard
to find wine was purchased at the winery in 1994 for $20 when they were just
getting started. Now the price is
easily in the $55-60 range and it would
still be worth it. Rating 95+
WinoHondo
1998
Liberty School Cabernet
$ (22.00)
Still
tightly wrapped in the bottle, this cab was harsh and tannic, which totally
overrode the fruit. This needs plenty of
oxidation for enjoyment so open it, pour it, and let it breathe long before you plan on bringing
it to your lips.
1995
Caymus Cabernet $$$ 75?
A properly stored bottle of
fantastic Cab. The cork was in
perfect condition, color and
clarity of this wine were a lush purple. The
nose smelled slightly of raspberry
and had a background of light earth. This
bottle was enjoyed in full size Cab
glasses and allowed to breathe for 30-40 minutes
prior to serving. Silky smooth with
great texture and an almost cherry like
finish. Great bottle of wine that
would hold up properly stored for years
to come. Rated
90 WinoHondo
1996
Chateau St. Jean Cinq Cepages $95
Everything they write about this wine is
true. If you are partial to a
Bordeaux style blend, you can't go wrong
with this selection. Although
young, this wine displayed complexity
whilst providing no trace of it's age. The
nose had a beautiful floral character and yet the taste still retained plenty
of solid fruit and body. We slowly enjoyed this wine over a one and a
half hour meal and the last sip left us wanting more.
Of course, with a restaurant
price of $95.00 I will continue to look for this vintage at my local
wine retailers! Rated
94 WinoHondo
1994
Silver Oak Alexander Valley - WOW!!!
WinoJohn
1997
BV Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon $ (19.99)
This
is a solid cab from a strong producer. A
good solid fruit aroma and a lush body make this enjoyable. The
finish on this one was a bit harsh which kept this from rating higher.
Let this settle down for another year and the fruit will be luscious.
1997
Penfold Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon $$$ (79.50)
This wine is too young to enjoy now, since tannins dominate the glass.
Buy it and place it in the back of your rack.
If I could save this in the bottle for 5 years, this will be a big cab
from the great producer of Penfold.
1997
Geyser Peak Reserve Meritage $$ (38.16)
This wine is enjoyable now, but will hold up well over the next several
years. This
has a good balance and an appealing, juicy character, which allows for
pleasurable early drinking.
Enjoy this wine and let it out of the bottle.
1994
Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon Bosche Estates $$
(39.00)
The
tannins were mild and a moderately full-bodied lush wine appeared.
Then, quickly, it faded. I expected this wine to reveal a long chewy
finish from the strong fruit nose. Could this one have had too much time in the
bottle?
1995
Weinert Cabernet Sauvignon
$ (18.00)
This had unimpressive fruit and tannins that kept me from forming enough
saliva to spit until Sunday morning. This
will not make my list again, in fact I would much rather buy 2 bottles of their Carrascal then 1 bottle of the Cab.
1997
Beaulieu Vineyard George DeLatour Private Reserve
Cabernet Sauvignon $$$
(65.00)
This is a big, bold wine that fills your mouth and warms your throat from the
first taste. The only regret I have
is that I tasted it so young. This
wine needs time to rest, quietly, in the corner of the cellar, hibernating for
the next 5 years to let the tannins mute and the heritage of this wine to
blossom.
1997 Kanonkop Kadette $ (9.99)
This South African blend is comprised of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and
Ruby Cabernet.
The nose of this was all cab and the fruit came on strong during the
course of the bottle.
This is a 10-dollar wine that drank as well as the 20-dollar wine I had
for lunch.
1997
Campo Madonna Cabernet Sauvignon
I
had this at a friend’s house, so I do not know the price.
This Italian Cab comes from Tuscany, but was watery and thin for a
Cabernet. I expected a strong, full
wine, but was disappointed from the lack of staying power it had on the palette.
I guess I am a Super Tuscan Guy.
1998
Casa Lapostolle Cabernet Sauvignon
$ (8.99)
There
was not a great deal of fruit for palette to cling to.
Not overly tannin, not overly anything.
I actually did the unthinkable; I put an ice cube in to cool it down
slightly so I could finish off the glass. At
the lower temperature, the wine did appear a bit more enjoyable, but still not
one I will purchase again.
1995
Navarro Correas Cabernet Sauvignon $ (11.99)
This is a Cabernet-Merlot blend but the bottle did
not have a percent of each listed. The
wine was good, but not long lasting. The fruit was there in the beginning
but quickly left your taste buds. The
color was a dark ruby hue and the wine had a good Cabernet aroma, but it left
you wanting a big bold taste, which was not there.
1996
Weinert Carrascal $
(9.00)
The blend in this bottle is a Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Merlot and
it gave a great oak cab nose as I poured my tasting.
The first glass was a bit tannic, but it rounded out well and, as I took
my second glass out on the porch after dinner, this wine impressed me. A solid red wine at $9.00 has me wondering if it is the wine or the price
I am most taken by.
1997
Jayson Red Table Wine $$ 42.65
This
is 1.75 mice. A Meritage consisting of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc,
Petite Verdot and Melbec. I was unimpressed. The fruit was okay, but did
not have the length and strength I expected from an Oakville, Ca., Bordeaux
style wine. In my humble opinion, save your money on this one.
I'd rather buy 2 bottles of BV Ensemble instead of the 1 Jayson.
1995
Cyrus $$ (32.00)
This estate bottled, premier vintage from Cyrus is made up of 78% Cabernet
Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc.
Cyrus is the Wetzel family’s tribute to their 25th year of
fine winemaking. 13.9% alcohol! As the wine opened up in the glass, a powerful wine, though
young, proudly brought forward the Cabernet sauvignon. The scent of oaked fruit
overtook the alcohol aroma making me want to light up a fine cigar.
This wine should lie in the basement for the next 5 years with no
problem.
1997
Geyser Peaks Meritage $$ (38.00)
Soft and mellow, this wine showed little tannin for a 1997.
A great compliment to the cheese and fruit platter served.
The full body of this blend stood up well to the sharp Blue Cheese.
The fruit did not come through as boldly as I expected.
The label did not identify the grape varietals and percent used of each
but, from my limited experience, it seemed like Merlot made up a significant
portion of this wine.
1997
R.H. Phillips Toasted Head
$ (16.67)
After my experience with a $5.99 bottle from R.H Phillips, I thought I
would give them a shot at something more respectable.
This wine is a blend of 55% Cabernet, 45% Syrah, for those of use that
like the big wines. This was much
better than the $5.99 wine, but still did not have the character to hang with
the big boys. This is a wine with a
better nose than taste. It just did not have the length and
full fruit you would expect from a Cab/Syrah.
1997
Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon
$ (18.00)
This is a good solid Cab that smells like a Cab and drinks like a Cab.
I like this one, but think I will like it more in a few years as the
tannins soften. Actually, half way
through the first glass, I was ready to complain about the harshness of the
tannins and how they were overriding the fruit, but this oxidized well and
brought out a robust flavor that convinced me to pour up a glass the next day.
This will drink well in about 2 years, but buy it now before the price
rises above 20 bucks.
1997
Los Vascos (8.99)
This was not the reserve which sells for about 14.95, this was the basic
crop and it is a good wine to have any time.
Low tannins
and decent fruit flavors make this a table wine for causal suppers at home or
when visiting friends. Part of the
Domaines Barons De Rothschild (Lafite) property, I recommend this to all and for
those with a few extra bucks in their pocket, treat yourself to the 1997 Los
Vascos Reserve. This was a strong year for the cab grape South of the Border.
1995
Cain Cuvee $(16.00)
This wine is made from 79% cabernet sauvignon, 5% Malbec, 4% Merlot and 12%
Cabernet Franc. Yes, a minor
sibling to Cain Five, but for the price, this wine has a good Cabernet nose and
a smooth, fruity finish. This wine actually got better the second day as it
oxidized. The first glass or two
carried a bit more tannin then I enjoy, but the tannin softened on Sunday and I
drank this with my salmon dinner. This
can only mean that the 1995 Cain Five is superb.
1996
Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon $ (23.00)
This wine comes from the world renowned Coonawarra region.
This wine has more to give over the next few years, this should be opened in 2
more years. The tannin cuts into
the fruit a bit too much at this time. The
promise is there for this to be a great wine.
The nose is all
fruit and at 14% alcohol, this wine is one for serious drinkers. If there is any left in any of the stores you see, pick it up
and lay it down.
1996 Foppiano Cabernet Sauvignon
$ (21.00 ?)
I will be generous and say that this wine will be enhanced with a
large-bowl glass. This did show
soft tannins and decent fruit and I will have to buy a bottle just to review it
on par with the rest of the wine I drink, not in plastic.
If the price for this is higher than the estimated $21 dollars, then the
value of this wine is not there. But, if I get a few cents back from a 20 dollar
bill and drink this out of a glass, I
will rate this as a great value wine.
1997 Clos du Bois Cabernet Sauvignon
$ (20.00 on the menu)
This wine was not the choice to follow a 1991 Grgich. It showed little
fruit and high acidity. But I do
not want to comment too much at this point because the 1991 was over-powering
this Clos and over-ruled it’s chances to show it at its best.
1991 Grgrich Cabernet Sauvignon
$$$
(65.00 on the menu).
I once read an article and it stated that if you don’t want
to go for your lungs on price, find an off year with bottle age.
This
wine was soft and smooth with a strong fruit and a slight off finish.
1997 Stags
Leap Cabernet Sauvignon
$9.00
per glass… This wine was a
pleasure to drink after dinner in a fine restaurant, slightly tannic with nice
fruit. A solid wine that made me
think that a trip to the Valley is needed.
1996
Franciscan Oakville
Estates Magnifical $$ (26.00)
This
is a solid 2 bunch of drunken mice with the price just borderline 2 $. I bet if
I shopped, I could get this one into the 1 $ class which would make this a Bucky
Dent. An all around good wine, not a super star, but consistent.
This wine, when poured, gave off a magnificent Cabernet aroma.
But the acid at this point still over powers the fruit, making me look
for one to put a years time longer in the bottle and this will be a pleasant
wine to grace the dinner table.
Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon 1996 - A big mouthful of fruit with
tight tannins that soften with some air. Will only get better with 2-5 yrs
of bottle age. Great value at $22.95. 92 points. JH -
1/24/00
Ristow Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 1996 $$
This
wine poured out rich in color, almost plum purple with a strong nose of fruit
from the get go.
The tannins were mellow giving this fullness on the palette.
I enjoyed this wine and it complimented the blue cheese and pear slices
to perfection. BS - 2/9/00
Gianni Paoletti Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 1995 -$$
Medium color with tannins ever present, I will seek this one out to age
in my basement and try again at another time.
This wine could not withstand the onslaught of the sharpness in the blue
cheese and held its own with the Brie.
A good wine, but dollar for dollar, not as bold and powerful as the
aforementioned Ristow. BS - 2/9/00
Ferrari-Carano
Siena Sonoma County 1997 -
A
blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec. "Reminiscent of
the rich Sangiovese/Cabernet blends produced in the famed Tuscany
region..." according to the label on the back of the bottle. I don't
think so, Tim. Not as full bodied as the referenced wines of Italy and
with berry flavors lost in the tannins. Maybe in a few years...
85 points. JH - 2/13/00
Robert
Mondovi Coastal 1997 $
This wine was delicious, showing a lot of up-front fruit and just enough
tannin to stiffen its backbone.
I think this one will be delicious 2 years from now and at a reasonable
price, I think this is a great weekend wine for casual drinking. BS 2/14/00
Penfold
Koununga Hill 1998
52% Shiraz-48%
Cabernet Sauvignon -
$
Drink now? Oh no,
Jerry. Cellaring short term is what I need to do.
Who ever said that this wine is ready to be consumed was mistaken. The Cabernet is still young and carries acids and tannin that
stifle the length and beauty of the shiraz. BS - 2/11/00
