A rock-solid Napa Cab at a rock-solid price. The nose of pencil shavings, vanilla, and toast promises great things to come, and it does deliver. The gritty tannic structure is balanced out by a rich body of red and dark fruits with a finish of violet and spice. An excellent example of how good Napa Cab can be without all the flair (and cost) of over-extraction and oaky opulence.
Previous review: A stunning value for Cabernet Sauvignon. It hits all the right notes with verve. Cedar and burnt sage take the lead, followed by allspice and currant. It offers up controlled fruit that ranges toward the dark fruits, including plum. The finish accents a black olive and cassis quality. Very nice.