A good exemplar of Cabernet grown in this important winegrowing region south of San Francisco. It’s a perfect wine to drink now for its dryness, tannic balance and classic blackberry, black currant and raisin flavors. ——S.H.(2/1/2011)—— 89

A big, sweet bouquet of smoke, creme de cassis, earth, underbrush, and herbs soars from the dark ruby/purple-tinged 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Saratoga Cuvee. The wine hits the palate with silky tannins, medium to full body, and no hard edges. This smooth, beautifully fruited, well-balanced Cabernet should drink well for a decade or more. This iconic winery continues to offer wines with personalities and styles that set them apart (especially the estate wines) from just about anything else readers will taste from California. Estate grown as well as purchased grapes are utilized in their less expensive Saratoga Cuvees.Tel. (888) 865-9463