Cabernet Sauvignon and Blends

cellar specials 234 x 60


2003 Vina Santa Rita 120 Cabernet Sauvignon $ (7.99)    OK for an inexpensive cabernet, this Chilean wine shows promise but it is not yet where it needs to be.  Dark fruit, herb and a touch of vanilla on the nose.  Open it on a Tuesday night, this way you won’t serve it by mistake on Friday night for dinner.  

2000 Cain Concept $$ (39.00)    Meritage Christmas to one and all, this blend is heavy on Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc and offers a depth of dark fruit flavors with a spice and mint finish that will stay with you beyond the bowl of the glass.  A solid creation for complex wine lovers.  

2003 Long Neck Cabernet Sauvignon West Cape $ (7.99)     This South African offering needs to calm in the glass before any positive impression is obtainable.  It starts as a jigsaw puzzle with pieces scattered about, but does come together well enough to show a drinkable cabernet sauvignon.  

1995 BV Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve Rutherford $$$ (65.00) Crafted like the cream of Aphrodite herself, this big cab brings delight with rambling black fruit, cassis and the gentle hands of mild tannins on the lengthy finish.  A treat.

2002 Los Vasco Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua $ (8.99)   This Chilean property of Domaines Baron De Rothschild (Lafite) is a solid example of wine offerings from South America.  Good dark fruit and bell pepper flavors present well for fewer than ten dollars.  

2002 Ring Bolt Cabernet Sauvignon $ (13.99)   This cab from down under is OK, but lacks the character and packed fruit I enjoy.  An easy drinking cab appeals to a wide variety of drunken patrons.   

2002 Mount Gras Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva $ (9.99)    A nice cab that pours out a rich deep purple and drinks full.  There is plenty of black cherry and plum to last through the glass and the finish is a short but silky one.

2001 Alterra Cabernet Sauvignon $ (14.99)     Be careful and let this one have some time in your glass, it starts out hot and totally hides the fruit in this alcohol heavy first sip.  It settles down nicely and drinks smooth and fruity for a nice casual compliment to a meal.  Bring a bottle to a friend’s house to enjoy with cheese.

2002 Robertson Winery Prospect Hill Cabernet Sauvignon $ (14.99)   This is a nice value cab from South Africa that shows plenty of fruit of cherry, raspberry and black fruit with a touch of cassis and enough tannins on the finish to give this one some legs.  A nice solid wine at a good price

2002 Ferrari-Carano Siena $$ (38.00 rest)    This one stands well against the pasta sauces served up on many of the dishes.  A blend of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon with nice dark cherry and a mouthful of tannins, fresh and vibrant.

1994 Cain Five $$$ (55.00)   An interesting blend but this wine, though fruit filled, lacked the finish and length for a big, bold California Meritage.  Good, but not what I would have expected from the year and winery.

1995 Joseph Phelps Insignia $$$ (75.00)   Lush dark fruit, polished tannins and a velvet finish is the best description for this wine.  When it comes to power and grace in a glass vessel, here is one for the books.

1995 BV Tapestry $$ (45.00)   Throw out the high and low and the judges give this a solid three.  The bottle time on this one has been kind and has allowed the complexities of the fruit to present themselves while mellowing the tannins and softening the finish.  A treat for those lovers of big reds.  

2000 Robert Pecota Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Kara's Vineyard  $$ (28.00)     A pleasant blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc that delivers a smooth, subtle silky wine.  The black cherry and currant flavors delight from the first sip, with a velvety finish.  

2001 Peter Lehman Cabernet Sauvignon $ (36.00 rest.)     Hang with this one, folks, because it comes out of the bottle as a stave.  It seems there is more tannin here than a leather shop, until the air bores holes through it.  Then you can enjoy the black fruits of this Aussie cab.  

2001 Concannon Cabernet Sauvignon $ (9.99)    This is ripe with black berry and dark cherry flavors that greet you from the first whiff.  The fruit is ready to treat you to an enjoyable evening.  A solid wine for under ten dollars.

2002 Rojo Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo Valley $ (8.99)    This one starts out hot and takes half a bottle to settle in.  The fruit is limited but a hope for things to come from this region.

1999 Ironstone Vineyards Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon $ (20.00)    The small additions of blending grapes to the Cab help define the blackberry and licorice flavors and the oak aging brings out vanilla and tannins to structure this wine.  A good once a week drinker for the books.  

2001 Errazuriz Estate Cabernet Sauvignon $ (10.99) Undrinkable, torturously unpleasant.  

2000 Beringer Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon  $$$ (61.00 rest.)     A nice mix of dark cherry, black fruits and a touch of cassis made this a fine companion to the steak I enjoyed.  This one shows good structure and balance with a pleasant finish.

2001 BV Century Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon $ (8.99)     BV offers this as acknowledgement of their 100 years in winemaking.  For a retail list of 8.99 and a discount if it’s in a mixed half-case or case, then may I present to you a diamond in the rough.  This is fruity and flavorful with a nice finish.  A keeper in my racking for times when friends drop in and hang out.

2000 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon $$ (40.00)      I must admit I know this is a quality wine but my palate has been dulled by current mental state.  Don’t let that stop you from drinking this one, it’s just me.  

1999 Santa Laura SA Laura Hartwig Colchagua Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $ (9.99)    This is my find of the month, a quality cab with generous amounts of blackberry, cassis and a hint of chocolate on the finish.  When you want a cab under ten to enjoy with friends, I recommend you try this one from Chile.

1998 Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon $$ (34.00)   A very approachable, drinkable cab with dark fruits and a touch of tannins, though this one comes up light on the finish  

2000 Norman Meritage $ (15.00)     This bottle boasts that this is a no nonsense wine from an up and coming region of California; I found it unimpressive and none stimulating to my senses.

2000 Plaisir de Merle Cabernet Sauvignon $$ (27.00)  This South African Cab is a pearl  (Paarl) of a wine, rich full bodied and plenty of black cherry and plum fruit with nuances of toast and chocolate.  The tannins will keep you awake and allow this one to drink well for the next few years.  

2001 Grand Archer Cabernet Sauvignon    Too much wood and not enough fruit on this one.  The oak started and ended, leaving only small amounts of dark cherry and cassis.  OK, but not great.  (Editor's note:  An old girlfriend once told me, "You can never have too much wood...")

 2001 Stone Haven Cabernet Sauvignon $    Deep ruby color leads you to a nose full of dark cherry and anise with a great finish for an inexpensive wine.  This is a fun wine to enjoy with singing off key.

2002 Santa Isabel Estate $ (8.00)    This pleasant example of Chile’s growing acceptance into the wine world offers great values of classic grapes.

2001 Estancia Cabernet Sauvignon $ (10.99)    A real bargain with the coat and hat of a higher priced wine.  Fruit?  We got your fruit right here, dark cherry, and blackberry with the nose of an old familiar boyhood hangout.  Buy this one while it's still on the shelves.  You will enjoy it for times to come.  

1988 Burgess Vintners Selection Cabernet Sauvignon $$   Once the dust and funk blew off this wine, it was a great example of time in a bottle and the pleasures brought out by letting the wine mellow.  

1995 Beringer Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $ (22.00)    This one hit me with a sweet caramel nose right off the bat and then heaps of dark cherries and cassis in your face.  Big, bold and red, like like my women.  

2000 Veramonte Cabernet Sauvignon $ (9.99)   Approach this now and drink it once a day.  I love the aromas coming off this wine. A dark rich red/purple color with flavors of blueberry and blackberry run post patterns in your glass.  This is not a long finishing sexy wine, just a well priced, good quality wine that you can afford to drink with friends.  

2002 Excelsior Cabernet Sauvignon $ (14.99) This wine greets you with a rich blackish plum color and a nose redolent of ripe blackcurrant and plummy fruit. Toasty oak aromas and sweet fruit flavors are balanced by soft, ripe tannins. Good structure with a soft, clean finish.

1996 Dominus Estate Meritage $$$ (89.00)   Like a greyhound chasing a rabbit, this one shows its power and elegance around the three quarter pole, with plenty of length for the home stretch.  Hold this for the winos in your life that would appreciate it.

1994 Diamond Creek Vineyards Volcanic Hill $$$ (65.00)   One can sit on this wine for several years to come as its tannins stand up and shadow box three rounds before the berry, cassis and smoky flavors from this one can step into the ring.  Once they do, it’s a heavyweight match up worth watching.  

2000 Chateau St Jean Cabernet Sauvignon $$ (25.00)    This wine has great black cherry, and cassis with a finish of toasted oak, but comes up a bit short on the body and feel for a Cab.  Good, but not one to rave about.

1994 Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve (my first good wine to cellar from WJ)   1994 was a year to appreciate and this crafted wine offers a treat as it unveils plenty of mouthwatering black cheery and hints of green olives.  A finish that offers one the hint that this is just starting to disclose its grace and elegance.  

1996 White Hall Lane Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon $$ (36.00)    This one is only driving at 45 in a 55 mph zone, so if you are patient, it will only get better.  Crafted with love, this wine drinks big and has a great black cherry and currant flavor with spice and a long sexy finish.  I am thankful.  

1999 Freemark Abby Cabernet Sauvignon $$ (30.00)    This Meritage brings a well-structured mildly tannic firm beverage to your glass.  Flavors of blackberry, currant and black cherry delight before you brace for the tannins and acid which poke a sharp stick into the roof of your mouth.  

1990 Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley ? (this came out of WJ’s stash)   Big and bold, this is why WJ loves Cali cabs. Deep reddish-purple, with generous portions of black cherry, currant, mild oak and a robust finish.  Don’t waste this one on a stick figure, save it for the real guests.

1995 Floral Springs Trilogy $$ (40.00)   A harmonious Meritage that offers depth and structure with a good fill of red fruits, dark berries, a hint of mint and a vanilla finish.

1996 Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley $ (22.00)   A dark red to purple hue and the flavors of coffee, currant and dark cherry play on your palate.  A mild amount of acidity and tannins show up at the end.

 

1994 Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma County $$   This is why I like blends.  The cabernet, Malbec, merlot, petit verdot, and cabernet franc play well together and offer up mouth-watering dark cherry, cassis, and mint flavors with a seductive finish.  A treat, though too good to be a 'drowning your sorrows' wine.  Save this one for a special occasion.  

1993 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Napa $$$ (74.00)   I understand the fanatics for this dark ruby nectar.  There is a regal dress to this wine as it lays out a headiness of cassis, blackberries, chocolate, sandalwood and herbs. Luscious and full bodied, with a long slightly tannic hem.

1995 Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon Napa $$ (40.00)   A fav of Wino John due to the big bold fruit and weightiness of this wine.  There are blackberry, blueberry, coco and plum that hit you with this wine.  An impressive liquid. 

2000 Chateau St. Jean Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma $ (24.00)    This wine boasts currant, cedar hints, plum and tobacco in a well-crafted wine, but lacks a powerful finish.  It is a great wine for the casual crowd.

2001 2 Brothers Big Tattoo Red $ (9.99)    This Chilean blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Syrah and 10% Merlot delivers a nice amount of dark fruits and tannin.  The wine does fall off quickly and seems light on the palate but I commend Erik and Alex for their intentions.

1995 Silver Oak Alexander Valley $$$ (67.00)    I openly admit I have fallen for the lusty stares of this wine, though true tasters would rate this a bit thin and short on the finish.  Sorry, on this one I lean towards the blind love of the girl I could not date in high school.  The sexy fruit and firm tannin figure leaves me with a boyhood grin.  (Editor's note: Lusty stares???)

1997 BV Coastal Cabernet Sauvignon Centennial Release $ (16.99)    A pleasant black cherry, currant, and a kiss on the cheek of oak with a silky finish that lingers longer then expected.  For cost and quality, my motion lotion is the only other bottle that gives me this much pleasure.

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 MeritagePrice $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