2007 Cabernet Sauvignon

Lamorinda (Contra Costa County)

This Cabernet Sauvignon is a dead ringer for a classic left bank Bordeaux in a ripe-vintage– wines from St. Estephe come to mind. In 2007, the fruit for this wine comes from 3 vineyards in Lafayette -- Ettell Vineyard, Koelmel Vineyard, and Doherty Vineyard – all with very different microclimates, exposures, and clonal plantings. Blended with about 2% Merlot and 1% each Cab Franc and Petit Verdot, this Cab displays a deep garnet color, with a hint of purple around the rim and a brilliant sparkle in the glass. The nose exhibits intense ripe black currants and cassis with a hint of dried fruits, black tea leaves, and a touch of cranberry. The palate is rich and juicy, with dark fruits pervading, but not overly jammy. Rather, the mouthfeel is smooth, expansive, with good acidity but lush and velvety, leading to a long lingering lip-smacking milk chocolate-tinged finish.

This wine is calling out for a rich juicy New York strip or marinated lamb kebobs. It's delicious now, and will continue to develop and evolve nicely for at least 10 years.