For full-bodied, true Cabernet at a reasonable price, Santa Alicia’s 2003 Gran Reserva is a winner. The plum and berry flavors are clean and supported by proper creamy oak, and the tannins are pliable and add backbone. Drink now.——M.S.(11/15/2007)—— 88

Rugged at first, with a strong blast of shoe polish and pickle barrel. Runs toward simple despite having a lot of color. The palate shows oaky notes of vanilla, marshmallow and cherry liqueur, while the finish is a bit medicinal. Not a congruent package.——M.S.(7/1/2006)—— 84

The aromas of oregano, green bean and plum are slightly misleading; you expect an underripe wine, but it’s not. There’s a good berry profile along with a soft, chocolaty finish. The fruit is more meek than forceful, but it’s still satisfying.——M.S.(3/1/2004)—— 85

Red plum and dry oak get top billing on the palate. What’s offputting here is a dry, gritty-woody mouthfeel that hangs on until the very end. ——D.T.(7/1/2002)—— 82