The sensational 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block boasts a dense purple color as well as creamy blackberry, cassis, floral and subtle smoke notes. Full-bodied, opulent and rich, it has more in common with a 2007 than expected. Drink this exuberant, flamboyant Cabernet over the next 15+ years. These are impressive efforts from proprietor Mark Carter. Tel. and Fax: (707) 445-0311

This Cabernet comes from the Soda Canyon region of Napa Valley, which is a cool area in the Vaca Mountains, northeast of the city of Napa that is not an official appellation. The wine shows excellent structure, with firm tannins and a bite of acidity, and is very dry. The pure Cabernet flavors are of blackberries, cherries, cassis and green olives, with a kiss of oak. Seems like a wine to put away in the cellar.——S.H.(8/1/2011)—— 92