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The 2010 Cabernet Shootout...
A Wine Challenge

Men Judges Results

Women Judges Results

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heart heart = Love at First Sip

J. Davies 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Diamond Mountain District, $75.00: 2138 cases produced
(94) Black

Male: Deep almost black crimson in color. The nose is invitingly complex...dark cherries, cassis, cola, game, and cocoa. Great mouthfeel...bold and rich yet velvety showing sweet blackberries at the core. Lively and focused with a long and harmonious finish.

Faust 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $45.00: 14000 cases produced
(93) Yellow

Male: The bouquet is classic Cabernet Sauvignon...plum with smoke and black tea accents. On the palate, the solid core of fruit is integrated with herb accents. The mid-palate is viscous cherry kirsch with coffee, chocolate, herb, and berry showing nicely on the finish.

Hahn Estates 2006 Cabernet Franc, Central Coast, $23.00: 4800 cases produced
(93) Turquoise

Male: Dark ruby and bright in color. Good, dry, and rich. Lots of class and elegance. Classic flavors of blackberries, black currants, black cherry, and cedar. It grows more impressive as it opens. The finish is very fine and long.

Lucas & Lewellen 2006 Clone 6 Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Barbara County, $36.00: 344 cases produced
(93) Dark Red

Male: Deep red in the glass. Rhubarb, blackberry, anise, menthol, and eucalyptus aromas entice you to taste this wine. The opening is rich and focused. Wonderfully balanced showing deft inegration. Elegant and classic.

Ty Caton Vineyards 2008 Estate, Caton Vineyard Caton Cabernet Collection, Barracks Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley, $49.00: 44 cases produced
(93) Aqua Marine

Male: Deep crimson in color. Aromas of brambly dark fruit with savory undertones. Opens with rich flavors displaying blueberries and cranberries framed by solid tannins that are harmoniously integrated. Classic finish.

Eberle 2007 Vineyard Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, $19.00: 4640 cases produced
(92) Khaki

Male: Oodles of classic Cabernet aromas - blackberries and black currants. Very rich, very fine wine. Magnificent tannins. Feels classy and harmonious, Delicious now but balanced enough for the cellar.

Girard 2006 Diamond Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon, Diamond Mountain, Napa Valley, $75.00: 900 cases produced
(92)

Male: Rich and flamboyant. Very forward in the mouth reminiscent of Rutherford with pleasantly solid red cherry candy and lots of toasty oak. Very refined in structure. Enjoy now through 2017.

La Storia 2006 Estate Reserve Geyserville Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, $22.99: 1200 cases produced
(92) Green

Male: Very rich, oaky, and hedonistic. This is a "Parker-style" wine of enormous appeal. Soft, ripe , and seductive. Enjoy now through 2017.

McGrail Vineyards 2007 Reserve McGrail Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Livermore Valley, $36.00: 1200 cases produced
(92) Red

Male: Cedar, tobacco, and coffee with a touch of mocha lead the way to the lush mouthfeel ripe with cherry flavors. A very elegant wine.

Pend d'Oreille Wine 2007 Meyer Reserve Lawrence Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $35.00: 97 cases produced
(92) Tan

Male: An excellent first impression with cassis, plum, cedar and graphite followed by some graham cracker notes. Very good mouthfeel with a complex palate and harmonious finish.

Anglim 2006 Starr Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, $34.00: 139 cases produced
(91) Light Yellow

Male: Bright well developed aromatics displaying ripe fruity and toasty oak. Very forward flavors of blackberries and cherries with cocoa/mocha accents. A very pleasing and easy to drink wine. Great finish.

Bogle 2006 Reserve Old River Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Clarksburg, $20.00: 400 cases produced
(91) Pumpkin

Male: Elegant looking in the glass with blueberry and violet aromas. Very pretty, round, and focused pomegranate flavors with hints of blueberry and clove. Wonderful length on the soft and sexy finish.

Cass Winery 2007 Reserve Cabernet Blend, Paso Robles, $90.00: 225 cases produced
(91) Bronze

Male: The bouquet displays currant and cherry with dried garden herbs and a dusty quality reminiscent of "Rutherford Dust." Solid structure. A great impression on entry of fruit, depth, and width. Lovely palate. The finish is very harmonious and long showing integration throughout.

Fernwood Cellars 2007 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Cruz Mountains, $40.00: 380 cases produced
(91) Orange

Male: Dark and brooding, tobacco, cigar box, and black pepper aromas waft from the glass. Rich currant fruit with sweet oak accents lead the melange of inviting flavors. Coffee joins late on the palate and stays through the finish.

Henschke 2004 Cyril Henschke Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Eden Valley, Australia, $100.00: 125 cases produced
(91)

Male: Tons of blackberries, cherries, and currants on the nose replicating on the palate. A rich and complex wine with mocha and chocolate joining mid-palate. Firm tannins and good acidity on the finish. Very good. Shows a youthful profile. Give it 4 to 5 years to mellow.

J. Davies 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Diamond Mountain District, $75.00: 2047 cases produced
(91)

Male: Smells dense, fine, and concentrated with lots of toasty oak. Very classy wine. Big and powerful California style. Tons of ripe fruit and oak on the palate showing toffee, blackberry, and mocha. Needs time.

JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery 2007 ISOSCELES, Paso Robles, $62.00: 11000 cases produced
(91)

Male: Crimson in color with slightly light edges. Aromas of dark blueberries tinged with cocoa. Ripe entry with sweet and appealing fruit on the mid-palate. Wonderful symmetry throughout.

Lake Chelan Winery 2005 Rivers Bend Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $30.00: 749 cases produced
(91)

Male: Very young, flashy, and impressive. Great start. Feels opulent, rich...important in the mouth. Black fruit waccented by spice and orange peel. Oak comes through mid to late. Delicious now. Not sure hoew it will age.

McWilliams Hanwood Estate 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, Southeastern Australia, $12.00: 47000 cases produced
(91) White

Male: Cigar box and earthy notes on the nose. Lush and rich in the mouth. Cherry, cassis, and cloves flavors with solid tannins. A well integrated wine.

THE GRADE 2007 Estate Winfield Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Calistoga AVA, $80.00: 300 cases produced
(91) Hot Pink

Male: Classic dark ruby color. Lush warm black cherry, cedar, and warm complex chocolate on entry. Layers of tart cherry, blackberry jam, mocha, licorice, and sandalwood continue through the wine. Super rich and refined tannins. Delicious, long toffee finish with well integrated refined tannins. Nice acidity that suggests the wine will cellar well.

Tulocay 2006 Rancho Sarco Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $39.00: 224 cases produced
(91) Dark Gray

Male: Good varietal aromas. Blackberries, currants, and mocha. Excellent mouthfeel...rich, dry, glossy, and opulent. Powerful fruit and oak. Fairly tannic and acidic but will soften in time. Enjoy with grilled pork loin.

Vinoce Solar Hill 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mt Veeder, $75.00: 125 cases produced
(91)

Male: Tons of fragrant fruit with lovely spicy, sweet oaky accents. Delicious with refined tannins. Almost sweet on the palate. Good wine. Needs time.

Yalumba 2006 Menzies the Cigar The Menzies Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra, Australia, $24.99: 200 cases produced
(91) Brown

Male: Mocha and maple syrup notes in the glass. Very inviting. The palate is refined and silky. Fleshy fruit tannins with a hint of oak on the finish.

Buttonwood 2007 Estate Cabernet Franc, Santa Ynez Valley, $22.00: 261 cases produced
(90) Dusty Rose

Male: Dense and concentrated black fruit. Impressive! Thick, drying tannins persist from mid through the finish. Needs time.

Cana's Feast Winery 2007 Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $29.00: 135 cases produced
(90) Periwinkle

Male: Earthy nose with hints of forest floor, game, and mushroom. Nice fruit on the front. Young and tannic showing lots of herbs - sage and dried thyme. Very good wine. Weighty in the mid-palate with a long and dry finish. Good example of Cabernet Franc.

CYRUS 2006 Estate Cabernet Blend, Alexander Valley, $60.00: 2500 cases produced
(90)

Male: The nose is somewhat restrained showing complexity and finesse as it opens. Cough syrup is the first distinctive aroma then herbal notes and cigar box too. The palate is tight opening slowly to reveal plum and anise notes. Thick tannins on the solid finish. Needs time.

Damian Rae Winery 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $59.00: 50 cases produced
(90)

Male: Delicious! Blueberry and cherry pipe tobacco in the glass. Dark fruit flavors enhanced with leather on entry. Currant shows mid-palate. Good mouthfeel. Firm tannins.

Eberle 2007 Estate Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, $34.00: 3524 cases produced
(90)

Male: Quite dark in color. Spicy red berry and currant aromas with underlying coconut, herb and dried flower notes. Ripe berry and cassis entry with coffee and herb joining the mid-palate. Oak shows on the slightly dry finish with red fruit and dried herbs peeking through.

Ecluse Wines 2007 Ensemble Bordeaux Blend, Paso Robles, $38.00: 480 cases produced
(90) Light Blue

Male: Chocolate, eucalyptus, and black cherry fruit aromas waft from the glass. A nicely integrated wine with layers of fruit and spice. Complex. The tannins are firm but not overly so.

Hagafen Cellars 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $45.00: 425 cases produced
(90) Deep Purple

Male: Dark color, almost to the edge where the wine sports a purple-ruby rim. Violets, pomegranate and dried prune aromas lead to an angular opening on this old world style wine. The middle is lush. There is good grip on the lingering finish. A well balanced wine that shows deft integration.

Hahn Winery 2008 Meritage, Central Coast, $16.00: 12618 cases produced
(90) Light Green

Male: Deep garnet in color. Aromas of blueberries, cedar, and good dark roasted coffee. Intense. Lovely entry with lots of fruit, good mouthfeel - almost silky. The breadth and depth make this quite appealing. The finish is long and harmonious. Excellent with lamb or veal.

JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery 2007 JUSTIFICATION, Paso Robles, $45.00: 5000 cases produced
(90)

Male: Aromas of bacon fat, cassis, rose petal, raw beef, and much more. Ripe fruit on entry. Lots of sweet, smoky oak. Juicy and layered.

LangeTwins 2007 Proprietary Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi, $35.00: 224 cases produced
(90)

Male: Wow! Super complex nose - cassis, chocolate, clove, and sweet berry pie. Very ripe fruit. A crowd pleaser.

Langmeil 2007 Blacksmith Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa, Australia, $23.99: 50 cases produced
(90)

Male: Dark garnet in color with aromas and flavors of dark cherries and raspberries. Lots of acidity in the opening. Good stucture and balance. Sleek and linear with a long lingering finish.

Louis M. Martini 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $25.00
(90) Purple

Male: Lush, rich, and opulent. Good integration of fruit and oak. In the mouth, the wine is lush and fruity. Sweet and soft like a Starbuck's raspberry, cherry, mocha drink sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and vanilla. This is a great food wine.

Martin Ray Winery 2007 Reserve Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $45.00: 2400 cases produced
(90) Forest Green

Male: Pretty. Forward, rich, and bright fruit aromas. Lush on the palate. Soft red and black fruit flavors enhanced with clove and bay leaf notes. Lots of sweet, toasty oak. Long and delicous plum finish. Flashy. A crowd pleaser. Ultra Californa.

Murphy-Goode 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, California, $14.00: 100000 cases produced
(90) Dark Blue

Male: Dark red in the glass with toasty oak aromas leading to rich and ripe blackberry fruit on the clean opening. Nicely balanced. An appealing old world style...firm and delicate with a ripe finish.

Orsianna 2007 2007 Orsianna Cabernet Sauvignon, Mendocino, $19.99: 1500 cases produced
(90)

Male: Garnet color with sweet cherry and cocoa aromas. The opening is rich and opulent. The mid-palate is voluptuous, finishing with a nice balance of ripe fruit and oak.

Pollak Vineyards 2007 Estate Bordeaux Blend, Monticello, $24.00: 350 cases produced
(90) Orchid

Male: The nose is sweet strawberry, red plum, and cherry with a dusty edge. The fruit flavors are lean at first with herb notes but evolve to a lush and round mid-palate. Fine tannins and lingering fruit through the finish.

R&B Cellars 2005 Reserve Bingham Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $50.00: 1100 cases produced
(90)

Male: Very rich. Give it time to breathe. Interesting aromatic - a blend of earth and fruit. Blackberry, cherry pie, mocha, licorice, cedar, and vanilla. Wow! Big and balanced. "It's all there!"

Rodney Strong Vineyards 2007 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, $22: 23000 cases produced
(90) Wedgewood

Male: Earthy and rich elements on the big nose. Balanced and integrated structure with a full mouthfeel. Toasty oak, blackberries, and currant in a classic Bordeaux-style. Appeals now for its mocha-tinged blackberry, cherry, and cola fruit flavors. This is wine to be enjoyed with food.

Skylite Cellars 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla, $28.00: 222 cases produced
(90)

Male: Rich and deep cassis, cola, and blackberry aromas that reopeat on the palate. Vanilla joins in with toffee and brown sugar oafter the wine opens a bit. Soft and supple.

Skylite Cellars 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $28.00: 280 cases produced
(90)

Male: Leather, cedar, and licorice aromas open to cherry, black currant flavors. Black pepper joins mid-palate with lovely chocolate onthe smooth finish.

Spangler Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Franc, So. Oregon, $24.00: 393 cases produced
(90) Gold

Male: Cherry, blackberry, and cedar aromas and flavors. Solid and well structured. Will improve with time.

THE GRADE 2006 Estate Winfield Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Calistoga AVA, $80.00: 254 cases produced
(90)

Male: A complex nose of dill, blue tone berries, raw oak, vanilla and dried forest herb aromas lead to a vinous entry of red berry and plum flavors highlighted by dried herb and anise mid-palate moving into a beautiful well integrated finish with coffee and chocolate notes.

VJB 2007 Dante Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley, $32.00: 650 cases produced
(90) Blue

Male: Deep crimson in color with menthol, black tea, and very ripe black fruit aromas that are replicated on the palate. Lush and generous black fruit flavors that persist through the long and full finish.

heart heart = An Affair to Remember

Alexander Valley Vineyards 2007 Estate Cabernet Franc, Alexander Valley, $22.00: 1500 cases produced
(89)

Male: Lots of spicy oak and oak tannins. Too much oak? Caramel persists throughout, covering the cherries. Improves as it airs with the fruit emerging. Dry and elegant.

Cass Winery 2007 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, $45.00: 700 cases produced
(89) Pink

Male: Black fruit, plum, and raisins on the nose. Mocha, black cherry, and chocolate flavors. Creamy, smooth, and balanced.

Cycles Gladiator 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, California, $9.99: 12600 cases produced
(89)

Male: Sweet and brambly on the nose. Good mouthfeel. Cherry, blueberry, and plum flavors with caramel notes on the finish.

Ecluse Wines 2008 Lock Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, $32.00: 238 cases produced
(89)

Male: Inviting aromatics of cola and rhubarb. Oodles of ripe cherries, blackberries, and currants. Clean and attractive. Simple and tasty. Strong impression of sweet fruit. Spice, cola, and fruit on the long finish. "No doubt...this is a California Cab."

Fritz Winery 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry CreeK Valley, $35.00: 1800 cases produced
(89)

Male: Warm and rich black fruit with brown spice and coffee aromas. Aromas are replicated on the full palate. Velvety and seamless wine. Perfect balance of berry fruit, cedar and soft tannins. Long finish. "I could drink this all night."

Galante Vineyards 2006 Blackjack Pasture, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley, $50.00: 550 cases produced
(89)

Male: The nose is inviting...smoky and gamey. Quite pretty on the palate. Surprisingly bright and balanced for such an earth-toned wine. The tannins are well integrated. Ready to drink now and for the next 5-8 years. Smoke and leather on the nose. Surprisingly bright and balanced on the palate for such an earth-toned wine. Lots of oak showing now. Drink now but for maximum enjoyment, lay down for 4-7 years.

Girard 2006 Pritchard Hill Estate Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $75.00: 450 cases produced
(89)

Male: The nose is redolent with ripe currants, red cherry, dried cherry, cranberry, and lots of oak. The wine is very dry but there is good ripe fruit here, showing fine tannins and elegance. Should develop over the next 6-7 years.

Ledson 2007 Cabernet Franc, Dry Creek Valley, $48.00: 250 cases produced
(89)

Male: Dark fruit aromas lead to nicely layered ripe black cherry, rhubarb, and currant flavors. The finish is almost sweet.

Martin Ray Winery 2006 Reserve Diamond Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $50.00: 2300 cases produced
(89)

Male: The smoky and brambly berry nose replicates on the palate and leads to light berry fruit flavors. Nice structure. Easy to drink.

Pollak Vineyards 2008 Estate Cabernet Franc, Monticello, $20.00: 495 cases produced
(89) Gray

Male: Red and black fruit aromas with butterscotch backnotes. Bright fruit on the palate with earth notes entering mid-palate. Some sweetness on the lasting finish.

Porter Family Vineyards 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $76.00: 389 cases produced
(89)

Male: Seductive black cherry, cassis, and spice aromatics. Big structure. Full finish. "Speaks of place...but not sure where. Napa?"

Rock Wall Wine co. 2008 Holbrook Mitchell Vineyard Cabernet Franc, Napa Valley, $25.00: 180 cases produced
(89)

Male: Black cherry, leather, black olive, and roasted tomato on the nose. The palate is a big, dark-toned wine. Nice acids assist in a compelling finish. It comes together surprisingly well on the tongue.

Skylite Cellars 2007 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $32.00: 100 cases produced
(89)

Male: Vanilla, cola, mocha, and cherry aromatics deliver dark and rich flavors on the tongue. Grippy tannins carry through the excellent length.

Skylite Cellars 2007 Reserve Bordeaux Blend, Columbia Valley, $47.00: 152 cases produced
(89) Coral

Male: Cherry, raspberry, cedar, and a touch of mint on the nose. Nice integration of fruit and tannins with leathery and earthy notes on the extended finish.

Ty Caton Vineyards 2008 Estate, Caton Vineyard Upper Bench Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley, $49.00: 42 cases produced
(89)

Male: Warm dark fruit and vanilla aromas lead to a rich palate with perfectly integrated oak. Polished. An elegant style.

Vina Robles 2007 Huerhuero Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, $22.00: 6740 cases produced
(89)

Male: The nose is "classic Cabernet" showing lavender, currants, tea leaves, and some tobacco notes. Dark fruit flavors. Excellent balance of fruit, oak, and acidity.

Annapolis 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Coast, $34: 300 cases produced
(88)

Male: The color is rich and bold as is the nose. Vanilla bean and floral notes waft from the glass. Excellent texture. Good balance of fruit and acid. Coffee and cream on the strong balanced finish.

Fire Station Red 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mendocino County, $15.00: 2570 cases produced
(88)

Male: Aromas of currants and bittersweet chocolate that are mirrored on the palate with the additions of black cherry and zesty oak flavors. Nice balance of fruit and tannins.

Frank Family Vineyards 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $45.00: 13100 cases produced
(88)

Male: Rich currant and cedar aromas. Big and smoky, Nicely balanced.

Icaria Winery 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, $28.00: 275 cases produced
(88)

Male: Pleasant perfume of vanilla, mocha, chocolate, and currant. "This is a very bold Cab!"

Indian Peak Vineyards 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Tehama County, $35.00: 536 cases produced
(88)

Male: The color is a lovely garnet. Deep blackberry and black tea show on the rich and voluptuous opening. Interesting mid-palate of meaty red cherry and currant accented by sweet oak and herb noytes. Drying tannins are still prominent on the tight, young finish.

LangeTwins 2007 Lodi Rules Certified Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi, $15.00: 1008 cases produced
(88)

Male: A beautiful nose of stone fruit. Balanced with metered tannins. "Like!"

Ledson 2004 Diamond Ridge Cabernet Franc, Lake County, $28.00: 1000 cases produced
(88)

Male: Orange peel and rose petals on the nose. Pomegranate and black cherry on the palate. The finish is strong and ageworthy.

Mudgee Wines 2006 Old Bush Vine Cabernet (150yr old vines) 2006 Made from 150 year old vines MUDGEE WINES VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON, Mudgee Region, $30.00: 256 cases produced
(88)

Male: Blackberry and plum aromas with peppermint and molasses upon opening. The palate is a mirror on the nose. Firm tannins.

Pedroncelli 2007 Morris Fay Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, $18.00: 1000 cases produced
(88)

Male: Aromas of smoky oak and pomegranate. The palate has a solid core of plum and rhubarb fruit with mint and licorice notes on the finish.

Pollak Vineyards 2007 Estate Smuggler Cabernet Sauvignon, Monticello, $24.00: 250 cases produced
(88)

Male: Very dark and extracted color. Aromas of eucalyptus and lavender. Solid integration of oak and ripe fruit. Somewhat tart on the finish. "I like it."

Rocca Family Vineyards 2007 Grigsby Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Yountville, $80.00: 519 cases produced
(88)

Male: Nose of earth, black pepper, the tiniest hint of meat, and black cherry opens to light blackberry flavors enhanced by brown baking spices. Pleasant acid on the finish.

Rodrigue Molyneaux 2006 Reserve, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Livermore Valley, $22.00: 400 cases produced
(88) Gunmetal

Male: Eucalyptus, butterscotch, cherry, and raspberry aromas and flavors. Nice mouthfeel.

Signorello Estate 2006 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $50.00: 2750 cases produced
(88)

Male: Quite dark in color. The nose is strong with components of meatiness, black fruit and eucalyptus. Lovely mouthfeel with a touch of siltiness. The finish is leathery. Has great potential.

Spangler Vineyards 2007 Claret Claret, So. Oregon, $28.00: 294 cases produced
(88)

Male: Dark sapphire in the glass. The nose is very pretty, if not profound. Balanced and warm on the palate. Smooth mouthfeel. The tannins are currently unresolved but overall balance is promising. This should get better and better with time.

Spangler Vineyards 2006 Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, So. Oregon, $50.00: 160 cases produced
(88)

Male: "Love the nose!" Dark fruit..black cherry with a smoky backnote. Dark currant, blackberry, and raspberry flavors surrounded by lots of tannin. Good wine.

Stony Ridge Winery 2007 Trifecta Del Arroyo Vineyards Cab Sauv, Petite Sirah, Syrah blend, Livermore Valley, $24.00: 560 cases produced
(88)

Male: Cherry and fig in the glass. In the mouth, the wine displays cherry and cpicy clove flavors. Velvety mouthfeel. Nice balance with a lingering finish.

Temecula Hills winery 2007 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, South Coast, $38.00: 110 cases produced
(88)

Male: Fascinating in its components and complexity. Boysenberry, green pepper, dill, and milk chocolate. Acids on the length enhance further.

Travieso 2006 El Rey Louvau Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley, $36.00: 150 cases produced
(88)

Male: Cassis and tobacco aromas..."Stag's Leap-like." Leathery with a rich structure. Strong and powerful finish.

Ty Caton Vineyards 2008 Estate, Caton Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley, $44.00: 447 cases produced
(88) Burgundy

Male: Dark and brooding in the glass. Interesting nose - cherry at first than bacon, sasparilla, and herbs join in. Nice fruit front to back that is well metered in oak and tannins. Balanced. Peaceful.

Varozza Vineyards 2005 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon, St. Helena Napa Valley, $45.00: 224 cases produced
(88)

Male: Cedar and blackberry aromas. A fruity palate but not overly so. Nice mouthfeel. Smooth with chocolate espresso notes on the finish.

Barefoot Cellars NV Cabernet Sauvignon, California, $6.99: 357000 cases produced
(87)

Male: Chocolate and a bit of raspberry on the nose. Nice fruit in the mouth...cherries and raspberries. "Not complex but tasty!"

Blind Dog Wines NV Midnight Run Cuvee Red Blend, Paso Robles, $15.00: 650 cases produced
(87)

Male: Big flavors, classic aromas, smoky long finish.

Bogle 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, California, $11.00: 157000 cases produced
(87)

Male: Great rich black fruit aromas. Sweet fruit flavors of figs and berries on entry. Lush on the palate. Simple and enjoyable.

Crooked Vine 2007 Estate Del Arroyo Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Livermore Valley, $32.00: 596 cases produced
(87)

Male: Smells jammy with lots of fresh, tart primary fruit...blackberries and blueberries. Obviously a very young wine. An impact wine. Too big for food?

Eagles Trace 2005 Estate Grown and Bottled Latitude 38, Napa Valley, $75.00: 800 cases produced
(87)

Male: Smells of strawberry, cherry, mushroom and green leaves. Darker & less distinct on palate. Tighter than expected but balanced. Needs time.

Harvest Moon Winery 2007 Buchignani Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley, $36.00: 290 cases produced
(87)

Male: An oaky nose leads to forward red raspberry fruit with nice acid mid-palate through the finish.

Hearthstone Vineyard and Winery 2007 Fireside Claret 65% Cabernet Franc, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, Paso Robles, $34.00: 155 cases produced
(87)

Male: Plums, pomegranate, sweet earth, and oak aromas. The palate is clean, simple, and juicy. Soft and pleasant.

Icaria Winery 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, $28.00: 275 cases produced
(87)

Male: Raspberry, boysenberry, and cedar aromas create a genuinely mouthwatering expectations. The entry does not disappoint showing red fruit enhanced by bright acid with soft tannins on the finish.

Murphy-Goode 2004 Terra A Lago Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, $45.00: 1200 cases produced
(87)

Male: The color is rich and earthy. The bouquet is floral and woodsy. The palate shows sweet fruit. Vanilla extract notes and cocoa been come through on the big finish.

Rock Wall Wine Co. 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $32.00: 200 cases produced
(87)

Male: Aromas of currant, black cherry, and menthol open to black cherry flavors with additions of dried herb and plum. Light on the oak with firm tannins. Pleasant!

Stony Ridge Winery 2007 Del Arroyo Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Livermore Valley, $25.00: 658 cases produced
(87)

Male: The nose emits ripe, big red fruit with hints of violets and lavender. The palate mirrors the nose with the addition of tobacco and cigar box. The finish is linear a bit tannic.

Tulip Hill 2008 Reserve Mt Oso Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Tracy Hills, $20.00: 491 cases produced
(87)

Male: Leather, licorice, and a solid ncore of ndark currants on the nose and in the mouth where the fruit plays out with a zesty component. Long and strong finish.

Turning Leaf Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, California, $8.00
(87)

Male: Simple and completely enjoyable. Toffee and jammy black fruit on entry with a hint of spice on the middle through the finish.

Ty Caton Vineyards 2008 Estate, Caton Vineyard Big Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley, $49.00: 45 cases produced
(87)

Male: Raspberry, cherry, dark blueberry, and truffle aromas replicate on the palate with backnotes of baking spices. Nicely balanced.

Varozza Vineyards 2006 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon, St. Helena Napa Valley, $45.00: 224 cases produced
(87)

Male: Intense garnet in color. Sour cherries and strawberries on the nose. Nice balance and mouthfeel. Good underlying acidity. "Very French."

Almaza Wine Cellars 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Lubbock, Texas, $15.00: 465 cases produced
(86)

Male: Lovely color, deep ruby with blue tones. Nice clarity on the edges. Deep, dark black cherry and coffee aromas followed by earthy and slight vegetal aromas. Rich mouthfeel. Yummy with ripe all plum fruit up front the mid-palate shows cherry, ripe raspberry and chocolate. Nice finish with lingering tannins and decent acid. "Perhaps the nicest wine I've tasted from Texas."

Angove Coonawarra Vineyard Select 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra, South Australia, $19.00: 1000 cases produced
(86)

Male: Meat, eucalyptus, plum, vanilla, and bay leaf aromas replicate on the palate with additions of allspice and black tea.

BIN 36 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, California, $16.00: 2200 cases produced
(86)

Male: Sour cherries and dark black fruit aromas lead to a very soft, lush, and rich palate. Good depth of fruit with a good long finish.

Callaway Vineyard & Winery 2006 Winemaker's Reserve 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, Temecula, Ca, $42.00: 577 cases produced
(86)

Male: Raspberry, mint, and cedar aromas lead to light red fruit flavors. Lots of oak tannins here.

Cedar Creek Winery 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, American, $15.00: 500 cases produced
(86)

Male: Lavender and laurel wreath aromas rise from the glass. Soft red fruit turning to sour cherry with hints of dried flowers on the finish.

D&S 2007 D&S Proprietary Red Blend, California, $22.00: 1400 cases produced
(86)

Male: Blueberry...wow! Intense fruit aromas then some medicinal notes. Blueberry, cherry flavors with firm tannins. Drinks much better than the nose portends.

Galante Vineyards 2007 Red Rose Hill, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley, $35.00: 600 cases produced
(86)

Male: Floral and red fruit aromas. Boysenberry flavors with cedar notes then tobacco. Not complex but quite nice with a smooth finish.

Jim Barry 2008 The Cover Drive Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra, Australia, $19.99: 4000 cases produced
(86)

Male: The nose is interesting...apple smoked sausage and black olives. Bright tart cherry fruit. Light mouthfeel with smooth tannins.

Lake Chelan Winery 2006 Rivers Bend Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $26.00: 822 cases produced
(86)

Male: Rose, smoke, and granite..."I like it." Rhubarb and strawberry fruit on the palate. Good integration of fruit and oak. A simple but pleasant finish.

Ledson 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Knight's Vallley, $64.00: 1100 cases produced
(86)

Male: Black fruit with hints of smoke and leather on the nose and palate. Very young and tight. "Too young to judge?"

Martin Ray Winery 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa-Mendocino-Sonoma Counties, $20.00: 8000 cases produced
(86)

Male: Raspberry, oak, and earth aromas. Plum flavors with rootbeer notes. Well balanced.

Mudgee Wines 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 MUDGEE WINES VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON, Mudgee Region, $20.00: 512 cases produced
(86)

Male: Black cherry with hints of leather and cedar. Raspberry on entry through the finish. Pleasant.

Parker Family Vineyards 2003 Reserve Parker-Sturrus Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, $39.99: 75 cases produced
(86)

Male: Aromas of vanilla, coffee, and blackberry. Dark cherry flavors. A mature wine.

Perrucci Family Vineyard 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, California, $34.00: 250 cases produced
(86)

Male: Dark and perfumed aromas in the glass. The perfume explodes on the the mid-palate and carries through the lingering finish.

Prix Vineyards 2005 Estate Bottled Reserve Weir Family Vineyard: MJT Block Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $60.00: 200 cases produced
(86)

Male: Sour cherry with heavy coffee aromas repeat on the palate. Balanced.

Sausal 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, $35.00: 350 cases produced
(86)

Male: Green and black pepper notes lead the aromatic which opens to dark fruit. The aromas are replicated on the palate with soft and extracted vanilla notes on the finish.

Temecula Hills winery 2007 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, South Coast, $38.00: 110 cases produced
(86)

Male: Clear garnet in color. Dark berry, coffee, cassis, mint, and rose aromas deliver flavors of dark cherry with hints of menthol and black tea on the backside.

Almaza Wine cellars 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon (2007), Lubbock, Texas, $20.00: 511 cases produced
(85)

Male: Plum and mint on the nose lead to dark cherry with hints of green olive. Light mouthfeel. Smooth tannins.

Angeline 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, $18.00: 1200 cases produced
(85)

Male: Pleasant wine. Light red cherry aromas and flavors with nice acid on the finish.

Huntington 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, California, $14.00: 2530 cases produced
(85)

Male: Bright cherry jumps out on the nice berry nose nand carries into the mouth. Bright fruit with enhanced forest notes on the finish.

Black Swan 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Southeastern Australia, $8.00: 100000 cases produced
(84)

Male: Sweet oak and leather at first opening to berry fruit aromas and flavors. Simple.

Copa del Rey 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, Colchagua Valley, Chile, $12.00: 5000 cases produced
(84)

Male: The nose is interesting...tea, olives, plum, and some truffle notes. Pleasant fruit with moderate tannins and good acid.

The 2010 Cabernet Shootout... A Wine Challenge

The 2010 Cabernet Shootout...
A Wine Challenge